Smoke-Free Public Places

About the Program

Category: Health (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

Tobacco use and secondhand smoke remain the leading causes of preventable illness and death in North Carolina and the nation. Research indicates that, during active smoking, outdoor levels of secondhand smoke may be as high as indoor levels and may pose a health risk for people in close proximity. In 2010, the NC Smoke-free Restaurants and Bars Law allowed local governments to adopt and enforce smoke-free ordinances that are broader than State law. In January 2013, Orange County, NC began implementing one of the most comprehensive smoke-free public places policies in the nation, preventing smoking on sidewalks, at bus stops, and in other public places – both indoor and outdoor. The rule was implemented in conjunction with new, robust tobacco cessation support services for county employees and residents, which include: free evidence-based tobacco cessation group classes for those who live or work in the county; free individual counseling by a certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist for county employees; free Nicotine Replacement Therapy for those who receive the above services; and promotion of the NCQuitline. Since 2013, all residents have benefits from less exposure to secondhand smoke, and more than 250 people have benefited from the county’s cessation services or its referral services.