The scientific evidence is clear: There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke.
Secondhand smoke causes serious diseases and premature death among nonsmokers. That’s why all workplaces and public places, including restaurants and bars, should be smoke-free. Everyone should have the right to breathe clean air.
Too many people — especially children and the elderly — are exposed to secondhand smoke. This puts them at risk for chronic illnesses like heart disease and cancer. When people live and work in spaces that are smoke-free, they are not being exposed to the risks caused by secondhand smoke.
In a recent survey of local restaurants, 94% indicated they lack a formal smoke-free policy. This causes employees, patrons and children to be exposed to harmful secondhand smoke indoors. Data on smoke-free policies shows they result in an immediate improvement in heart health, including fewer hospitalizations from heart attack, particularly among nonsmokers.
It is time we consider the health of our community by following the lead of our neighbors in Spartanburg and Greenville in enacting a smoke-free policy on the local level in Greer. To ensure our indoor air is free from secondhand smoke, the Greer City Council must pass a comprehensive smoke-free ordinance.
Dr. Thomas I. Nathaniel
Greer
