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Butting out backed for Albany outdoors

Shannon SmithAlbany Advertiser
Representatives from local sporting clubs in support of the smoke-free move.
Camera IconRepresentatives from local sporting clubs in support of the smoke-free move. Credit: Picture: Supplied

There are hopes for a smoke-free future in Albany as the City of Albany urges smokers to “butt out” in public places.

The Centennial Park sporting precinct has become the first area to fall under the City’s Smoke-free Outdoors Policy.

The policy aims to protect non-smokers from exposure to second-hand smoke and remove temptation from those trying to quit.

City of Albany executive director community services Susan Kay said banning smoking in outdoor areas would protect Albany’s healthy and active community.

“This policy ensures the City goes the extra mile in creating healthier environments and ultimately leads to the reduction and impact of second-hand smoke,” she said.

“Second-hand smoke can cause significant harmful effects to our health and what this policy aims to do is protect the community, particularly young children, from exposure to this when they are outdoors enjoying our public spaces.”

Designated smoking zones have been created at Centennial Park sporting precinct and a “Game On, Butt Out” educational campaign has been launched.

Albany Junior Soccer Association president Grace Knowlson said the clubs agreed with the message that sport and smoking did not mix.

“Families and children account for a large portion of our members and the wider sporting community, so this policy will support the health and safety of players, volunteers and spectators,” she said.

For details, including maps of designated smoking zones, visit bit.ly/2Q0n17L.

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