Project Action, Tobacco-Free Coalition of Hamilton, Fulton and Montgomery Counties educates the community about tobacco-free outdoor areas around playgrounds, parks, businesses, college campuses and other grounds.
Parks, playgrounds, beaches and other recreational areas should be places people can go to enjoy the outdoors, breathe fresh air and exercise. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, secondhand smoke exposure causes disease and premature death in children and adults who do not smoke. Children exposed to secondhand smoke are at an increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome, acute respiratory infections, ear problems and more severe asthma. Also, cigarette litter is dangerous for children and bad for the environment. It can take up to 25 years for cigarette butts to biodegrade.
As the community educator for domestic violence and crime victims services of Catholic Charities of Fulton and Montgomery Counties, I proudly partner with Project Action. We share the common goal of healthy families and a safe community. Should you need more information on Tobacco Free Outdoors, please visit www.projectactionhfm.org.
GINGER CATO
Community educator, Catholic Charities of Fulton and Montgomery Counties
