Resources

Keeping Your Foster Child's Life Smoke-Free

Smoke-Free Environment Policy

Smoke-free environment means no smoking in the foster home or the foster family's vehicle. The policy does not apply to the use of tobacco for cultural or traditional purposes.

The ministry recognizes that many foster parents are already mindful of the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and prohibit smoking in their homes. The smoke-free environment policy, effective May 2008, ensures that all foster children and youth benefit from a smoke-free environment.

This policy does not require foster parents to quit smoking. However, foster parents and other smokers in the home who wish to quit smoking can access support through QuitNow, a free 24 hours a day service operated by the BC Lung Association on behalf of the Ministry of Health. QuitNow is an internet-based program providing tools, expert advice, e-mail support, and chat lines to help you successfully stop smoking. QuitNow also provides a telephone counselling service available 24/7 and staffed by registered nurses toll-free at 1 877 455-2233.

More information about the smoke-free environment policy is found in the following material:

When you avoid tobacco products and keep your home smoke-free, you are choosing a lifetime of health and well-being for your foster child. View presentation to see how tobacco harms children and youth.

Resources for Tobacco Cessation

Information and General Resources

Youth Resources