Together We Can Save Countless Lives
Smoking has been the number-one cause of preventable death and disease in this country for decades. If we could eliminate tobacco use entirely, the results would be staggering:
- We would prevent nearly half a million premature deaths each year.
- We would save the lives of 5.6 million children alive today who would die prematurely because of smoking.
- 58 million Americans still exposed to secondhand smoke would breathe more freely.
- We would prevent one out of three cancer deaths in this country.
In January 2016, the Orange County Board of Health reviewed the emerging evidence on the risks of secondhand e-cigarette aerosol exposure and voted to develop a proposed rule to prohibit use in enclosed areas of bars and restaurants. Learn more about the proposed rule and research related to e-cigarettes.
Smoking materials are the leading cause of residential fire deaths, and the evidence is clear that secondhand smoke is harmful for health. Learn more about our smoke-free housing efforts and what you can do.
Since 2013, Orange County's public places have been smoke-free. The rule includes places such as government grounds, parks, sidewalks, and any enclosed facility where the public is invited such as lobbies and other common areas. Read more about Orange County's smoke-free public places.
Review how the rule is enforced and the compliance information.
File a smoking complaint online.
The US Surgeon General has said, "Smoking cessation (stopping smoking) represents the single most important step that smokers can take to enhance the length and quality of their lives." Find out more about cessation services in Orange County.
Information on the Health Effects of Secondhand Smoke
- American Cancer Society
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Surgeon General's Report on the Health Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to Tobacco Smoke (2006)
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Be Tobacco Free
April Richard, MPH
Tobacco Prevention and Control Coordinator
Email April Richard