The Central Lincoln County YMCA has announced the adoption of a newly revised campus-wide smoke-free policy. Since the use of tobacco products is the single, greatest cause of premature death and disability in the United States and in Maine, this policy exceeds the requirements of Maine state law by banning the use of any and all tobacco products at all times and in all locations that comprise the CLC Y campus. Now members, visitors, and employees are also protected from the serious health hazards of secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, including hundreds that are toxic and at least 69 that cause cancer. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, secondhand smoke causes a long list of health problems in nonsmoking adults and especially for those at higher risk such as children and our older population.

Leadership and management of the CLC Y are dedicated to promoting health and wellness and recognize that tobacco is an extremely addictive substance. As key collaborative leaders and champions for healthy living, the Y will work with local tobacco prevention partners such as LincolnHealth to provide education on the impact of tobacco use and promote resources such as the Maine Tobacco Helpline: thequitlink.com/tools-to-quit/the-maine-tobacco-hotline/.

“The Y is committed to improving the community’s health and well-being” said Meagan Hamblett, executive director of the CLC YMCA. “To achieve this, we will strive to empower individuals, families and communities with knowledge and skills to change their health habits. Doing so requires us to create and promote an environment that supports these healthy habits, including a smoke-free and tobacco-free environment.”

To accompany this policy, the Y will receive new smoke-free campus signs from MaineHealth’s Center for Tobacco Independence. Signs detailing the requirements of this policy will be posted throughout the YMCA campus.

For more information about second and third-hand smoke, smoking cessation, and state policies related to smoke-free environments, visit breatheeasymaine.org/facts/.

The CLC YMCA is a key collaborative leader improving the quality of life for all by being the champion for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

For more information about any of the Y’s events, visit clcymca.org.