Categories
· Smokefree Policies
· Colleges
· Op-Ed
· Outdoors
USA, by State
· Oregon
|
Smoking should be banned in public places
Jump to full article: Portland State University Vanguard, 2009-10-06
Author: Meghan Daniels Vanguard Staff
Intro: Walking to class is becoming a life-or-death adventure as the dangers of secondhand smoke are becoming more of a priority to Oregonians, with college campuses and parks going smoke-free.
. . .
While it's a person's right to choose to smoke, it is also a person's right to choose not to smoke. It is unfair to for a person to inhale secondhand smoke when they have chosen not to do it firsthand. Some people suffer from severe asthma or respiratory problems, so while inhaling secondhand smoke has been proven to be dangerous in a healthy non-smoker, it is especially risky for those with serious health problems.
So how do we solve this problem? Should we support one person's freedom while ignoring another's? No. What it comes down to is health. The concerns and major health issues linked to secondhand smoking are prominent issues, and the health of the citizens should be the city's main concern. Thus, the best solution is to designate certain areas for smoking that are well-ventilated so as not to affect the health of those who choose not to smoke.
So, while you may still be able to smoke in Portland public parks, stay away from playgrounds. The next time you reach into your pocket to light up a cigarette, think first. Think about what you are doing to the environment, other people, children and animals. Think about what you are doing to yourself the next time you reach for that cigarette. Is it worth it? You decide.
Jump to full article » |