Secondhand Smoke

Exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) from burning tobacco products causes disease and premature death among people who do not smoke. There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke; even brief exposure can cause immediate harm.

Comprehensive smokefree laws are laws that prohibit smoking in all workplaces and public places, including restaurants and bars. Comprehensive smoke-free laws and policies fully protect people from secondhand smoke exposure.

No smoking sign inside public restaurant.

General Information About Secondhand Smoke

Trends and Disparities in Secondhand Smoke

Health Problems Caused by Secondhand Smoke

Preventing Exposure to Secondhand Smoke in the Community

Preventing Exposure to Secondhand Smoke in the Home

Smokefree Policies Can Protect Everybody

Secondhand Smoke Resources

Going Smokefree Matters

Everyone deserves to breathe smokefree air where they live, work and play. Completely eliminating smoking indoors is the only way to protect nonsmokers from involuntary exposure to secondhand smoke.

Find information about the health dangers of secondhand smoke in single family and multiunit homes, bars and restaurants, and casinos.