Tobacco-Free Parks Make Sense
Did you know that approximately 7% of Will County eighth grade students and about 23% of Will County twelfth grade students are currently using tobacco products? (Will County Illinois Youth Survey, 2014). According to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, about 11,100 kids under 18 become new daily smokers in Illinois each year. As youth are easily influenced by the people around them, how can we, as a community, work to ensure that youth are surrounded by positive role models? By prohibiting tobacco use at recreational facilities, parks, and playgrounds, we can help establish a tobacco-free community norm and can promote a healthier environment!