No More Smoking in County Parks

Beginning May 31, in recognition of World No Tobacco Day, all Burlington County parks will become smoke- and tobacco-free—permanently. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) and partners worldwide recognize World No Tobacco Day every May 31 to highlight the health risks associated with the use of tobacco and to promote quitting smoking. According to the WHO, tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death globally and is currently responsible for killing one in 10 adults worldwide.

“We all know that smoking is a serious health risk, but secondhand smoke, even breathed outdoors, can cause major health problems as well,” said Burlington County Freeholder Joanne Schwartz, liaison to the Health Department. “Making our parks smoke- and tobacco-free is just a small step that the county can take to help promote healthy living.”

Recently the Tobacco-Free for a Healthy New Jersey group reached out to the county to ask that officials consider making the county smoke-free. This group has approached several counties and municipalities in the region to go smoke-free as well. The county Health Department partnered with Resource Conservation and the tobacco-free group to formulate a plan.

“May is Clean Air Month, which makes this decision to go smoke-free even more fitting,” said Schwartz. 

“On behalf of the American Cancer Society, Eastern Division, I am particularly pleased to congratulate the Burlington County Board of Freeholders for their commitment to improve the public's health by making all of the county parks smoke-free,” said Fred M. Jacobs, MD, JD, Chief Medical Officer, American Cancer Society, Eastern Division. “Such actions by communities across our state, supported by the American Cancer Society, continue to increase awareness of the dangers of cigarette use and hasten the day when this public health menace is no longer a threat to any of the citizens of New Jersey.” 

Signs will be put in all county parks announcing the new restriction. County park rangers will educate park guests and encourage visitors to be respectful to the new policy.

Provided by the Burlington County Office of Public Information