There are more than 4,000 dangerous chemicals in cigarette smoke.  Because cars are such small spaces, a cigarette in the car exposes your kids to a greater concentration of harmful chemicals than in any other environment.  In fact, levels are up to 27 times higher than in a smoker’s home, and 20 times more toxic.

Smoking in the car exposes children to a greater risk of:

• Worsening asthma symptoms
• Bronchitis, pneumonia and respiratory tract infections
• Middle ear infections (glue ear)
• Increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or crib death
• Behaviour issues and decreased attention and comprehension
• Slowed lung growth
• Increased risk of cancer and heart disease in adulthood

The easiest step you can take towards addressing these problems is to make your car smokefree. Here are some simple steps:

• Do not smoke, or let your passengers smoke, in the car
• Put up a no smoking sign on the dashboard or window to remind your passengers that you have a smokefree car
• Plan your journeys and allow regular stops for smoking breaks outside the car
• Empty the ashtray and fill it with sweets or loose change
• Keep several packs of sugar-free gum in the glove compartment.
• Wash your car and vacuum all floors and upholstery
• Ask your doctor about nicotine replacement therapies to help control cravings while you’re in the car for long journeys.
• Reward yourself with a music CD, a coffee or other treat after the first week of smoke-free driving.

What will a smokefree car mean?

• A smokefree car will be cleaner, fresher and more comfortable
• A smokefree car can be easier to sell, with a higher resale value.
• Fewer distractions. The Highway Code lists smoking while driving a distraction.
• You must not smoke in public transport vehicles or in vehicles used for work purposes in certain prescribed circumstances, see downloadable vehicle leaflet under Business heading.