Smokers will be asked to butt out within 10 metres of children’s play areas as part of a new initiative by the Banyule City Council.
The Smoke Free Outdoor Areas Policy initiated by the council was adopted earlier this year with much support from community members.
Banyule Mayor, Councilor Wayne Phillips said the policy focuses on public health and keeping our children safe from second hand smoke.
“Children exposed to second hand smoke are at an increased risk of asthma, sudden infant death syndrome, acute respiratory infections and ear problems,” Cr Phillps said.
“Now, in many parts of Banyule, and significantly in playgrounds, children and families can enjoy the great outdoors without breathing in other people’s smoke,
“We are taking a stand to protect people from the negative health effects of second hand smoke as well as improving public amenity and the maintenance of council property,” Mr. Phillips said.
Besides children’s playgrounds, the council will also install the signs at all events run and sponsored by the council and within 10 metres of specified council-owned buildings.
This project is attempting to reduce the number of avoidable deaths and prevent children from being exposed to the deadly toxins found in cigarettes.
Picture courtesy of The Banyule Council
Quit Victoria executive director, Fiona Sharkie said, this is a great way to reduce the visibility of smoking in front of children.
“Quit supports and commends the Banyule Council for taking steps to reduce the community’s exposure to second-hand smoke,” Ms Sharkie said.
“Smoke free playgrounds are an important part of reducing the visibility of smoking to children as the more likely children are to see smoking, the more likely they are to see it as a normal activity and something they want to take up.
“We continue to urge the State Government to bring Victoria in line with every other state in the country and ban smoking in outdoor dining and drinking areas,” she said
A Victorian Population Health Survey conducted in 2008 estimated 21 percent of males and 15 percent of females in Banyule were smokers and it is one of the highest causes of avoidable deaths.
Janette Sutherland, a local resident in Banyule says it’s an excellent initiative by the council.
“This is a very bold move. It will challenge the smokers,” Ms. Sutherland said.
Mara Dale a mother of two said it’s a step in the right direction.
“It’s an excellent idea. People won’t leave their cigarette butts behind for children to pick up,” she said.
Banyule is the most recent Victorian councils to take the initiative to ban smoking in outdoor areas. It follows Baw Baw Shire and Frankston City Council.
Picture courtesy of The Banyule Council
