The Perth County Health Unit and local Fire Departments are encouraging landlords and property owners to adopt a smoke free policy at multi-unit rental properties.
Perth County Fire Chiefs are uniting their voices to warn of the dangers of smoking in the home, with 20% of residential fires between 2012 and 2014 caused by lit smoking materials.
Firefighters from the Stratford Department responded to 489 fire emergencies in the past 10 years, with almost half related to smoking.
The Perth County Health Unit says at least 55 multi rental buildings have implemented smoke free policies already.
Medical Officer of Health Miriam Klassen says, "there is no safe level of exposure to second hand smoke, and keeping the home a smoke free place is the best way to protect your family from the health risks of second hand smoke."
Property owners or landlords can call the Health Unit at 519-271-7600 for more information.
