Is smoking near children forbidden? Surprising facts most people don’t know

Smoking in the presence of children is a topic that often stirs debate. Many people wonder if it is actually allowed to smoke where children are present. Are there any specific rules? And what are the consequences if you break them?

Although the Netherlands does not have a nationwide outdoor smoking ban, there are certain locations where smoking is absolutely forbidden, especially when children are nearby. Social pressure to create more smoke-free spaces for children is also growing.

Where is smoking near children forbidden?

In the Netherlands, there are very clear places where smoking is not allowed, particularly places where children are often present. The most well-known example is school grounds—smoking is banned on all school premises, both during and outside of school hours. This policy is part of the Tobacco and Tobacco Products Act and is strictly enforced by the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA). The ban applies to regular cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and water pipes (shisha) with tobacco.

At childcare facilities, smoking indoors is forbidden, and more and more childcare centers are expanding this ban to their outside play areas as well, especially places where children play. This is due to awareness of the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and the importance of a healthy play environment. The NVWA ensures compliance with these rules.

For many years, smoking has also been banned in public indoor spaces such as government buildings, hospitals, hospitality venues, and schools. These rules exist not only to protect smokers but, above all, to protect non-smokers—including children—from the harmful effects of tobacco smoke.

Regarding outdoor spaces like parks, playgrounds, streets, and squares, there is no general nationwide ban on smoking. Municipalities, however, can introduce additional rules, such as prohibiting smoking near hospital entrances or busy playgrounds. Thus, the rules vary between municipalities.

What are the penalties if you smoke where it's forbidden?

If you smoke in a location where it is legally forbidden, you risk a fine. On school grounds, such a fine can be as high as about €95. The aim of the fine is not only to punish but especially to reduce smoking in sensitive places and to protect children.

In less regulated places like playgrounds or public parks, enforcement is less strict and fines are less common. However, that does not mean there are no risks. Children’s developing lungs and immune systems make them extra vulnerable to the effects of tobacco smoke. Exposure can cause respiratory problems, asthma attacks, coughing, and an increased risk of infection.

Why is smoking near children so harmful?

Passive smoking means that someone involuntarily inhales smoke from a cigarette, e-cigarette, or water pipe. For children, this can be very damaging. It can negatively affect their lung function and increase the risk of serious diseases. Asthma and allergies are more common among children who are regularly exposed to smoke. Ear infections and respiratory illnesses are also more frequent among children growing up in smoky environments.

Research also shows that children raised in smoke-free environments are less likely to start smoking themselves. By limiting children's exposure to smoke, we also protect them from the temptation and harmful effects of smoking later in life.

What do experts and organizations say?

Experts and health organizations have long called for stricter rules around smoking near children. Pediatricians point to the dangers of passive smoking and advocate for a smoking ban in cars when children are present. This is already regulated in other countries, but in the Netherlands, such a ban is still under discussion.

Organizations such as the Dutch Cancer Society (KWF) and the "Smoke-Free Generation" campaign are actively working to increase smoke-free areas.

Research indicates that more and more Dutch people support a ban on smoking in playgrounds, at childcare locations, and on school grounds. Nearly seven out of ten people believe smoking should be forbidden where children are present.

The "Smoke-Free Generation" initiative aims to help children grow up smoke-free and encourages schools, childcare centers, sports clubs, and municipalities to create smoke-free spaces to set a positive example.

What future developments are expected?

There is growing political support for a broader smoking ban near children. Motions have already been passed to ban smoking in playgrounds, amusement parks, and cars with children present. The practical implementation of these plans is still in development.

Municipalities are increasingly able to impose stricter rules locally. This can lead to differences between municipalities, but also increases awareness among smokers.

Campaigns are also underway to encourage smokers to make conscious choices about smoking near children, with the goal of making smoking as invisible and inaccessible as possible for children.

How can you help protect children?

Everyone can help protect children from smoke. It’s important not only not to smoke near children yourself, but also to gently encourage others not to do so. You can do this in a friendly way by speaking about the dangers of secondhand smoke.

Respect smoke-free zones and pay attention to signs and instructions, especially at schools, childcare centers, and other places where children play. You can also create smoke-free spaces yourself, for example by taking alternative routes when walking with children to avoid smoke zones.

Supporting initiatives like "Smoke-Free Generation" helps create a healthy environment for children. These organizations provide information, tips, and materials for growing up smoke-free.

Conclusion

Although outdoor smoking is not banned everywhere, there are clear rules for places where children are often present: schoolyards, childcare centers, and all public indoor spaces have a smoking ban. Municipalities can add additional rules. Smoking near children poses serious health risks, especially due to secondhand smoke.

Experts and social organizations are advocating for stricter and broader smoke-free zones around children, and an increasing number of Dutch people agree with such measures. By being mindful about smoking near children, you can make a positive contribution to their health and wellbeing.

Everyone can help ensure children grow up smoke-free by following the rules, encouraging others to do so, and supporting smoke-free initiatives. In this way, together, we work towards a healthier future for the next generation.

Original article (in Dutch):
https://trendyvandaag.nl/is-roken-in-de-buurt-van-kinderen-verboden-dit-zijn-de-feiten-die-niet-veel-mensen-weten