Smoke-Free Cars

Some locations, like homes and cars, present an increased risk for the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

Smoking in a car is bad for anyone’s health – but it is particularly hazardous for children, as their lungs are still developing and they have higher breathing rates than adults. In fact, every year up to 26,000 kids develop asthma as a result of secondhand smoke.footnote 8 This problem is why some states – including California, Louisiana, and Arkansas – have already passed laws banning smoking in cars with children present.

Due to the small interior space of a car, an increased concentration of smoke can be produced quickly. In fact, the California Environmental Protection Agency reports that cigarette smoke exposure in a closed car is comparable to the exposure a firefighter might receive over four to eight hours fighting a California wildfire.footnote 9

MYTH #1: If I open a window in my home or car, I can get rid of most of my secondhand smoke.*

Fact: Opening a window or aiming your tobacco smoke out a window isn't enough. Extensive studies have shown that there is no level of ventilation that will eliminate the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.footnote 10 Opening a window can also result in airflow back into the room or car, potentially causing smoke to be blown directly back at nonsmokers.footnote 11

 

MYTH #2: If I smoke when my children aren't home or in the car, it can't hurt them.*

Fact: Many parents think that it’s all right to smoke when their children aren’t around. What they may not know is that secondhand smoke lingers long after they finish a cigarette. In a recent study, researchers found that secondhand smoke can remain in contaminated dust and surfaces, even if smoking took place days, weeks or months earlier.footnote 12

 

Did you know? Cigarette butts are the most littered item in the world, often discarded in our parks, beaches and city streets.
footnote 1
Smoking in your car can also lower its resale value because of the smell and cigarette burns to the upholstery. It is also a primary cause of litter, as smokers will often flick their cigarette butts out their window. (Learn more about Washington’s litter law.)

 

Make your car smoke-free:

  • Do not smoke in the car and do not allow others to smoke in your car.
  • Hang a sign from the dashboard or on a window, reminding your passengers not to smoke. Get your sign here.
  • Empty the ashtray and fill it with sugar-free candies or change.
  • Wash your car and vacuum all floors and upholstery.

*The above myths quoted from the Health Canada Website.





  • Last Updated: 07/10/08

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    This Web site contains information on the revised Clean Indoor Air Act (RCW 70.160). It is not legal advice. This information cannot be considered as a substitute for legal advice from and representation by a qualified attorney.

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