Driving with kids? Don't smoke - it's now the law
January 21, 2009 3:52 PM
Ont Bans Smoking in Cars with Kids
McGuinty Government Protects Children's Health
A new law prohibiting Ontarians from smoking in motor vehicles with passengers under 16 comes into effect today.
The legislation is part of the McGuinty government's Smoke-Free Ontario Strategy, a plan that encourages young people not to smoke, helps smokers quit, and protects people from exposure to second-hand smoke.
Under the law, a driver or passenger smoking in a motor vehicle, while someone else under the age of 16 is present, is committing an offence, and can be fined up to $250.
Children exposed to second-hand smoke are more likely to suffer Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, acute respiratory infections, ear problems, and more severe asthma.
Quick Facts
- Second-hand smoke levels in motor vehicles can be up to 27 times greater than in a smoker’s home.
- Ontario has one of the most comprehensive smoke-free strategies in North America, including one of the toughest laws to protect people from second-hand smoke in restaurants, bars, offices, schools, day care centres and hospitals.
- Since 2003, tobacco consumption in Ontario has fallen by more than 30 per cent.
Learn More
- Want some help to quit smoking? Call the Smokers’ HelpLine at 1-877-513-5333, or visit www.smokershelpline.ca.
- Learn about the health effects of second-hand smoke
- Learn about the smoking in motor vehicles legislation.
Ministry of Health Promotion and Sport
ontario.ca/health-promotion