Stay Away from Second-Hand Smoke

Parenting Tips

Second-hand smoke is what you get when you're around a smoker. It's the smoke the smoker breathes out. It's the smoke that comes from the burning end of a cigarette, cigar or pipe.

This smoke contains many irritants and poisons. It is especially dangerous for babies and young children. Their lungs are delicate.

Children who breathe this smoke are more likely than other children to get sick. They may have more mucus. The fluid in their middle ears may build up and cause ear infections. They may develop pneumonia, bronchitis and other lung infections. If they have asthma, it may get worse.

Second-hand smoke is harmful for everyone. It contains more than 40 cancer-causing substances.

It can also harm the heart. Anyone who lives with a smoker is at risk of developing lung cancer and having a heart attack.

What can you do?

• Don't allow anyone to smoke in your house. If people must smoke, ask them to do it outside.
• Avoid homes, cafes and other places where people smoke. Go to smoke-free places only.
• If other people care for your baby, make sure they don't smoke.
• If you or your partner smokes, stop. If you have trouble quitting, ask your doctor for help.
• Set a good example. Children learn by watching what you do.
• For your baby's health—and your own—stay away from second-hand smoke.

These tips were reproduced from the U.S. Department of Education.

View more Infant Parenting Tips.