No smoking on City of Hamilton arena and recreation centre property

HAMILTON, ON – November 7, 2012 – Hamilton Public Health Services is reminding residents that there is no smoking within parks and recreation areas, which includes the property surrounding arenas and recreation centres. Tobacco Enforcement Officers are currently conducting inspections at local arenas and recreation centres to educate residents and visitors about the rules at these properties. City of Hamilton By-law No. 11-080 came into effect on May 31 of this year and prohibits smoking in or on: parks and playgrounds, sports and playing fields, recreation centre property, arenas and stadium property, outdoor pools, leash-free dog parks, beaches, and skateboard parks. “It is important for these properties to be smoke-free to protect the health and safety of children and families who visit recreation centres to participate in physical activity, promote healthy lifestyles, and for positive role modeling for children and youth, ” says Dr. Ninh Tran, Associate Medical Officer of Health for the City of Hamilton. More information about City of Hamilton By-law 11-080 can be found at www.hamilton.ca/tobacco or by calling the City of Hamilton Tobacco Hotline at (905) 540-5566.