'Let's clear the air'

Posted Feb 2, 2012 By EMC News

Ottawa Public Health

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has recently released recommendations for a renewed smoke-free strategy designed to protect children and non-smokers from second-hand smoke while reducing smoking rates.

This joint initiative between Ottawa Public Health and bylaw services, in consultation with other city departments, includes increased programming for people who want to quit, new smoke-free regulations to protect residents from second-hand smoke and a public awareness and community engagement strategy designed to make Ottawa a healthier city for all.

"Tobacco use continues to be the leading cause of preventable death and disease," said Dr. Isra Levy, the City of Ottawa's medical officer of health.

"In Ottawa, almost 1,000 smokers and non-smokers die each year due to tobacco related illness," he said.

"The renewed strategy will result in healthier people, a cleaner city and smoke-free kids."