Secondhand and Thirdhand Smoke
Thank you for protecting your loved ones.
Quitting smoking or vaping is the best thing you can do to protect your health and your loved ones.
Secondhand and Thirdhand Smoke
Secondhand smoke is the smoke others breathe in when someone is smoking or vaping nearby.
Thirdhand smoke is the invisible chemical residue that sticks to surfaces like clothing, furniture, walls, and cars long after smoking or vaping stops.
The Risks Are Real
There is no safe level of secondhand or thirdhand smoke. Opening windows or using fans won’t remove these harmful chemicals. They stay on surfaces, putting kids, family, friends, and pets at risk. These chemicals can be inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through the skin.
Health Risks from Secondhand and Thirdhand Smoke
For Babies: Exposure can lead to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
For Kids: Secondhand smoke can cause asthma, sore throats, ear infections, breathing problems, and learning difficulties.
For Pets: Dogs and cats exposed to secondhand smoke are twice as likely to get cancer. Thirdhand smoke chemicals also settle on their fur, adding to the risk.
General Risks: Secondhand smoke contains thousands of chemicals, with at least 69 known to cause cancer. Thirdhand smoke leaves behind toxic particles on surfaces.
Know the Law in Maine
It’s illegal to smoke or vape in a vehicle with a child under 15.
Download Secondhand and Thirdhand Smoke Resources:
Ready to Quit?
Quitting tobacco is one of the best decisions you can make for your health and future—and you don’t have to do it alone. With free, personalized quit plans, and medications to control cravings, you’ll have everything you need to quit successfully and start feeling the benefits right away. Don’t wait—take the first step toward a tobacco-free life today.
Talk to a Quit Coach
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