The airborne chemicals in secondhand smoke create a toxic environment for anyone in close proximity to a smoker.

Secondhand smoke can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat and can also irritate the lungs and lead to coughing and chest discomfort.

Asthma symptoms can be triggered if you smoke or someone with asthma is around smoke.  In addition, there is some evidence that young children exposed to smoke in their first year of life are at increased risk of developing asthma.  To reduce exposure to smoke, you can do the following:

• If you smoke, QUIT!
• Do not smoke in your home or car and do not allow others to do so.
• Do not smoke around children.