A look at the dangers that second-hand smoke has on people, animals and the environment, with a strong argument supporting a ban on smoking in public places.
This paper touches on the physical dangers of inhaling second-hand smoke and the negative effects of second-hand smoke on children and pets. It also argues for a ban on smoking in public places and describes some of the cities and states that have already instrumented such a ban in the United States.
“Second-hand smoke is a public health hazard. Not only does it have the supernatural ability to cling to clothing and hair, leaving behind a lingering, musty, and stale smell, but it can also create very serious health problems. For those who choose to partake in the precarious activity of puffing on a cancer stick, the associated side effects are expected. Smokers are voluntarily and knowingly exposing themselves to the possibilities of asthma, lung cancer, heart disease, and other related diseases, and are not all that surprised when they become ill from their bad habit. For those who choose not to inhale poisonous chemicals into their lungs, however, the side effects are just unfair. Many non-smokers have chosen not to smoke to preserve their health and prolong their lives, and they should not have to expose themselves to second-hand smoke when they are out in public. Non-smokers should be able to feel free to socialize in any restaurant or bar without having to be subjected to the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. With so many grim statistics out there about second-hand smoke, why are we still allowing people to smoke in public places, literally killing those who choose not to smoke?”