Effects of passive smoking and vaping on children

The health of children can be particularly impacted by the effects of both types of second-hand smoke.

You can support and protect their health by keeping your home free of smoke and vapes, and encouraging them to avoid second-hand smoke.

Even if you or someone close to you smokes or vapes outside your home, there could still be a risk of others being exposed to passive smoke and e-cigarette vapour. This could be due to:

• Windows or doors being left open while someone is smoking outside
• Smoke or vapour entering the house as the person who smokes or vapes steps inside
• Exposure to clothes with smoke or vapour particles on them

Get to know the facts about passive smoking and vaping, and share them with the young people in your life.

For many people who smoke or vape, improving their family’s health and wellbeing can be a strong motivator to quit. If this is you, and you’re ready to quit, start your journey by creating your Quit Plan.

If you want to help children or young people quit smoking or vaping, you can support them by keeping your home smoke-free and vape-free. Share the facts around passive smoking, and encourage young people to avoid second-hand smoke. Also, let them know the facts about vaping - while vapes don't release smoke, they do produce aerosol that includes toxic chemicals.