Thursday, October 25, 2012

Dekalb bans smoking


                After seeing other communities put a ban on outdoor smoking, Dekalb County has decided to hop into the bandwagon and put a ban on smoking in playgrounds, parks, and service lines as well. They still, however, allow people to smoke in areas only permitted to people who are 18 or older, such as bars and strip clubs. Over the past few years there has much controversy about which areas should or should not be banned. While supporters are worried about the unnecessary expenses in health care due to smoking, opponents such as bar owners fear going out of business. Although the debate over whether or not smoking should be allowed in bars and clubs is still ongoing, it is safe to say the outdoors is now smoke-free.
                I think it’s a great thing that Dekalb County, as well as many other counties and communities, are taking the initiative to create a healthier environment for the public. It benefits many – especially children. Parks and playgrounds are areas where many children go to enjoy themselves. Since their immune systems are not as strong as that of a grown human, it is important to protect them from harmful substances, such as the smoke released from a burning cigarette. With the ban on outdoor smoking effective, people will be able to enjoy the outdoors more since they won’t have to worry about inhaling an unpleasant odor.
                This news ties into the topic of how dangerous smoking really is. Since smoking is so common, it may not seem like such a threat to the human population. It, however, does more damage than anyone can imagine. Overtime, the effects of smoking builds up, and the health of a smoker deteriorates. The immune system will weaken, causing him or her to be more prone to diseases. Smoking also leads to cancer, heart attacks and strokes, which happen to be the top three leading causes of death. So stop and think for a while. Is smoking really worth risking your life for?

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