There is no "risk-free" level of exposure to secondhand smoke............... Children exposed to secondhand smoke are at increased risk for SIDS, acute respiratory infections, ear problems, and more severe asthma...........Environmental tobacco smoke has been linked to reading, math, logic and reasoning declines in children......

CRF Project Summary
Cigarette Restitution Funds are provided through the Baltimore County Department of Health for school-based tobacco-use prevention. These funds support system wide and individual school initiatives to reduce tobacco-related health risks among students. These risks may be due to personal use, secondhand smoke, or environmental smoke issues. Studies have shown that smoking and secondhand smoke have an impact on student health, increasing the potential for absenteeism. In addition, environmental smoke has been linked to cognitive declines.

School-based initiatives focus on reducing and/or eliminating student, staff, and caregivers’ tobacco involvement, as well as collaboration with and support of community and National smoke-free initiatives.

SmokeFree School Environment
Policy and regulations have been established to maintain a tobacco-free work environment at all times in all school Baltimore County Public Schools owned or leased buildings, grounds, and vehicles. See Policy 2372 and Rule 2372.

Student use or possession of tobacco or tobacco products on school property or at school-sponsored activities is prohibited as governed by Policy 5530 and Rule 5530.

Prevention Education
Health Education is required in grades K-8 and as a high school credit requirement. Tobacco-use prevention is concentrated in the units addressing substances of abuse in grades 3, 5, 6, and high school. The development of age appropriate health and safety skills to avoid and reduce the risk of exposure are provided throughout the curriculum at all grade levels.

Counseling and Cessation Programs
Students who have violated school tobacco policy or who have concerns about personal use are directed to school staff, programs, or other resources available to address their specific tobacco-related issues. Schools may also apply for funding to provide cessation services for students.

Local School Initiatives
Each year schools are provided the opportunity to apply for funding to address specific tobacco-related concerns within their school community. In the 2007-2008 school year, sixty-two schools received funding for initiatives.

For Parents and Guardians
    - Second-hand Smoke Riskier for Black Children: Study
Links of Interest
    - Tobacco Related Health Observances
    - Parent Tips
    - Baltimore County Tobacco Resource Center
    - Quit Smoking Resources
    - Cost of Smoking Calculator

For "staff only" materials please visit our intranet