Second-hand Smoke Effect

Second-hand smoke is smoke inhaled from tobacco being smoked by others. This happens when you are in an enclosed space or sitting near someone who is actively smoking. Second-hand smoke doubles an infant’s the chances of dying from SIDS. Children exposed to second-hand smoke are also at higher risk of other diseases such as asthma, the common cold, and other viruses.

Third-hand Smoke Effect

Third-hand smoke is tobacco smoke toxin that remain after the cigarette is put out. Third-hand smoke toxins can build up on the smoker’s hair, clothing and other surfaces. Even very small amounts of the toxins in smoke can cause harm to an infant’s developing brain.

Early Educators who smoke before working with infants or during work breaks need to make a specific effort to reduce the risk of third-hand smoke. To reduce infants’ risk of exposure to third-hand smoke, Early Educators should cover their clothing with a jacket or sweater, pull back long hair, or wear a hat while smoking.  After smoking, it is important to wash your hands, face, and change clothing that will come into direct contact with the infant.  Examples like these will protect each infant’s vulnerable developing body systems.