To the Editor:

Over the past two years St. Lawrence County has seen a number of towns and villages adopt tobacco-free policies for their parks, playgrounds and recreational areas.

Each of these policies cite numerous reasons why it is important to create tobacco-free outdoor areas for children to play and families to enjoy recreational time together, including modeling a positive and healthy example for impressionable kids, and minimizing exposure to second-hand smoke.

Tobacco related illnesses are the leading cause of preventable deaths in the U.S., killing more than 440,000 Americans each year.

According to the Surgeon General there is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke.

Beyond the multiple health reasons supporting the implementation of tobacco-free policies, it should also be noted that this type of policy promotes respect for others and the environment.

Since 2011 Norwood, Massena, Gouverneur, Madrid, Clifton and Fine have joined Canton and Potsdam in adopting tobacco-free parks, playgrounds and recreation policies.

The Massena Nature Center has also adopted a policy as a way to promote healthy living for its patrons.

We are hopeful that the citizens of these communities will join us in thanking their community leaders for recognizing the importance of promoting healthy living and protecting our youth.

We should also applaud the efforts of The Health Initiative for facilitating a number of these policies through its “Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work and Play” program.

This year should be a good one for all who enjoy their local parks, playgrounds and recreational areas.

Benjamin R. Todd

Tobacco Program Coordinator