Smoking is your personal choice. Involuntary inhalation of the smoke you exhale while smoking is not the personal choice of others around you. It is your responsibility to follow proper smoking etiquette.
You search for a cigarettes shop near me, visit the shop in person, and purchase a king size cigarette pack of your favourite brand. Now, you may want to smoke right away, but you must understand that there is a time and place for everything. Other individuals in public places have their preferences and sensitivities. Adhere to smoking guidelines such as no smoking near hospitals, schools or any other place where children can be exposed to secondhand smoke. Let’s delve into smoking etiquette.
When, Where and How
Manners are extremely essential, particularly in public. Smokers smoke in different scenarios, such as at home, at work, in public places, and in other social settings. Guidelines and some “unspoken rules” are in place for each scenario.
Public Place Smoking Etiquette
According to Section 150 of the Criminal Code of Canada, a public place is any place accessible to the public by right or invitation. Public places can be indoor or outdoor. Keep the following in mind:
Follow Smoking Laws
Comply with the local smoking laws enacted to protect everyone’s health and well-being. The Canadian federal laws aim to create smoke-free environments in the following facilities by imposing a complete smoking ban:
- Healthcare facilities
- Primary and secondary schools
- Universities
- Governmental facilities
- Private offices
- Public transport
- Restaurants
- Bars and pubs
Smoke in Designated Smoking Areas
There are designated smoking areas (DSA) where non-smokers are not exposed. In Canada, a designated smoking area must be fully enclosed and separate from work areas. It must have a separate ventilation system and a clear sign indicating that it is a designated smoking area.
Be Considerate of Others
You must be mindful of others. They may not appreciate someone smoking cigarettes in their proximity. If the local laws allow smoking outside designated smoking areas, maintain a safe distance from non-smokers.
Properly Discard Cigarette Waste
Always use designated ashtrays to prevent littering. Make sure you always put your cigarette out completely and immediately to reduce fire hazards. Don’t throw cigarette butts in water bodies, bushes or plants.
No Smoking Around Pregnant Women and Children
Avoid smoking around pregnant women, children or any other group that may experience serious health consequences from secondhand smoke.
Smoke in Well-Ventilated Areas
Don’t smoke in a closed area because you are not the only one using that space.
Designated Smoking Area Etiquette
Follow smoking guidelines and rules for a designated smoking area to minimize impact on non-smokers. This designated space is safe and comfortable for smokers. Even when smoking in this space, make sure that smoking does not cause inconvenience to non-smokers. Put out your cigarette and dispose of the cigarette butt properly. Dispose of cigarette butts in designated ashtrays only.
Respect the Rights of Non-Smokers
Follow these guidelines to create a harmonious environment:
- Don’t smoke near non-smokers
- Smoke in designated areas only
- Put out cigarette and properly dispose of cigarette butt
- Follow smoking bans and restrictions
- Avoid smoking around children, pregnant women and older adults
- Carry a portable ashtray
Etiquette for Smoking in Social Settings
Be mindful of the health, comfort and preferences of others when you smoke in social settings. Follow these guidelines:
- Ask for permission before smoking in the presence of others in a car, room or any other enclosed space.
- Move away to smoke and don’t blow in the direction of others.
- Wash your hands and use breath mint or gum to freshen your breath.
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