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In October 2009, Halifax Regional Council unanimously approved a policy to restrict the use of tobacco products at outdoor recreation facilities where children participate in activities.
There are currently 480 sites proposed for inclusion in the policy, including sports fields, courts, beaches, playgrounds, outdoor rinks, swimming pools, spray parks, skateboarding and BMX parks, onsite canteens, public washrooms, and areas within some parks. Tobacco includes cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco and other products containing tobacco.
The policy stresses the importance of informing citizens about the health benefits of smoke-free outdoor recreation spaces, what the policy requires and how to comply at outdoor recreation facilities. Public education and signage will be the primary tools to support compliance.
Capital District Health Authority (CDHA) and Community Health Boards have already joined efforts with HRM to build healthier communities. The CDHA has committed $10,000 in support tobacco-free outdoor recreational facilities in HRM because this policy will:
- Prevent young people from starting to use tobacco products
- Protect everyone from second-hand smoke
- Support people who want to stop using tobacco products
- De-normalize tobacco use in our society which further prevents and reduces tobacco use
For more information on HRM's Tobacco Restrictions Policy, please refer to the following:
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