On September 2, 2007 all B.C. schools (K-12), both public and private, became totally tobacco-free (Tobacco Control Act section 2.2). 

This law applies to:

• Students
• School employees
• Parents
• School visitors, on-site workers & guests
• Anyone attending non-school activities in schools or on school grounds
• Anyone in school vehicles
• Anyone in private vehicles parked on school property
• All tobacco products, not just cigarettes

Why is this law important? 

• Because everyone’s health is important
• Because most smokers start before the age of 18
• Because tobacco is addictive
• Because these new requirements might help smokers in their efforts to quit

Please support tobacco free schools….

• Support your school’s efforts to promote a healthy learning environment
• Ensure that you comply with the new law by not using any tobacco products while on school grounds
• Encourage and support student awareness of the new law.   Make sure your children understand the consequences of violating the new legislative provisions while at school
• Support school officials when penalties are imposed
• Be a positive role model for your children, whether you’re a smoker or not.  Encourage and help them say no to cigarettes, and don’t give them, or provide easy access to, tobacco products

Thinking about quitting? Stop smoking information is available at www.quitnow.ca.