Removing Murderous Secondhand Smoke

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F. Therefore, when nonsmokers walk past those on campus smoking, whether for brief or extended periods, it is never safe.

(TRANSITION: So the extent of the problem shows that a change is vital if we are to have clean air to breathe on campus. Let’s examine a solution.)

II. We need to make sure the health of nonsmokers isn’t compromised by subjecting them to secondhand smoke while providing adequate accommodations for those who do smoke.

A. First, a new position at SWIC needs to be designed and filled by an authoritative figure, such as someone from public safety, whose job is to circulate the campus and enforce the rules for smoking and nonsmoking areas. If it is not possible to hire someone new, the current staff needs to take turns fulfilling that position’s duties.

1. If anyone is caught smoking outside the smoking areas, they will receive a ticket and a $5 fine. If the same person is caught a subsequent time, the fine will increase another $5.

2. If the same person is caught smoking in an unauthorized area a third time, they will no longer be able to smoke on school grounds. They will have to put out their cigarette at the Metrolink station or in the parking lot near their car.

3. If the smoker continues to disobey the rules, increased fines and disciplinary action will be taken at the discretion of the school staff.

B. I realize that some smokers stand close to the buildings to seek shelter from the elements. So I propose that small buildings, about the size of a bus stop, are built around the campus so they can seek shelter from inclement weather.

1. These buildings will need to be enclosed to minimize the amount of secondhand smoke escaping into the air.

2. The buildings also need to be away from main sidewalks, doors, and other heavily populated areas. Then if some secondhand smoke does escape, the effect on nonsmokers will be very minimal.

3. It will cost money to do this.

a. To reduce the cost, the buildings can be made from simple, but sturdy materials, such as Plexiglas. They need to be nothing elaborate, but something that is effective and fulfills its purpose.

b. For a short time, taxes or tuition may have to be raised to offset the cost. However, it will be more than worth it if we can walk around a campus free from the death-dealing cloud of smog caused by secondhand smoke.

(INTERNAL PREVIEW: This leads me to my next point: the benefits of implementing this solution.)

III. For the health of all on campus, it is absolutely imperative that the amount of secondhand smoke be reduced, and my plan will accomplish this.

- Imagine that it’s a beautiful spring day outside. You’re in a good mood; you’re strolling to class.

1. As you near the entrance of the school there’s no smoke in the air. You don’t have to race past a crowd of smokers holding your breath and covering your nose and mouth.

2. You can linger for a while, taking in the fresh air.

B. That is possible with my plan.

- The nonsmokers are relieved to finally have clean air to breathe.

2. The smokers are happy they have a place to go that still accommodates their needs, and they are glad the nonsmokers can no longer gripe at them.

C. According to the American Heart Association, a smoker who quits experiences immediate benefits, such as improved circulation. Within two to three months lung function improves up to 30%, and after one year the risk of heart disease is reduced by 50%.

1. It is reasonable to conclude then, that although they may not be as drastic, there will be many similar health benefits by reducing exposure to secondhand smoke.

(TRANSITION: As you can see, the benefits of my plan reach everyone who walks outside on this campus, not just a select few.)

CONCLUSION

I. Before we leave here, I hope I’ve convinced you why it is so important to limit exposure to secondhand smoke by establishing new smoking areas and strictly enforcing them.

II. The current system on campus is not working because the “No smoking” signs are not being obeyed. This grieves nonsmokers because secondhand smoke kills.

III. I have these forms I would like you to fill out. I want to know which parts of my plan you support or if you have any further suggestions.

A. We can join all of our voices together to be heard.

B. We can convince the administration at SWIC to make changes.

IV. Secondhand smoke is murdering people. Remember it kills eight people in Illinois every day!

A. We need to move the smoking areas and enforce the rules, so nonsmokers on campus will have limited exposure to its ravaging effects.

B. This will prevent you and you and me from becoming one of the eight victims claimed by secondhand smoke today.

Works Cited

Alters, Sandra M. Alcohol and Tobacco. Farmington Hills: Thomson Gale, 2006. 63.

Fassbinder, Alisa A. Personal interview. 7 Mar. 2007.

"Join the Smokefree Illinois Challenge!" American Lung Association. 28 Mar. 2007 .

Paulos, Leah. "Sickly Seconds." Scholastic Choices Nov.-Dec. 2005. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost. Southwestern Illinois College, Belleville. 9 Mar. 2007. Keyword: Passive Smoking.

"Quit Smoking." American Heart Association. 28 Mar. 2007 .

Sample of the handout

Circle one from each category:

Male Smoker Faculty

Female Nonsmoker Student

Circle all that apply:

I would agree to the following:

a. Have security guards regularly circle the campus enforcing