Tobacco-Wise Awards 2015
Written by admin, May 28, 2015
May 28, 2015 – Public Health Celebrates Community Leaders in Tobacco Prevention
The greater Peterborough area is a leader in promoting tobacco-wise living. On Thursday, May 28 Peterborough Public Health formally recognized those who have taken measures to make Peterborough a smoke-free environment as part of their World No Tobacco Day celebrations. The award ceremony was held at Peterborough Collegiate Vocational School with individuals and organizations that go above and beyond to help create a tobacco-free community.
The awards, in three categories, were handed out by Medical Officer of Health Dr. Rosana Salvaterra. First, the Exceeding the Standards Act Award was for organizations and municipalities who have introduced policies going beyond the Smoke Free Ontario Act. Next, the Cessation or Prevention Award went to schools that prevent youth from starting to use tobacco products, as well as helping youth quit smoking and remaining tobacco free. Finally, the Community Leader Award celebrated individuals and organizations who contribute to smoking prevention and cessation in our community.
“Peterborough has always been at the forefront of progressive tobacco control for more than a decade,” explained Dr. Salvaterra. “There is still work to be done to make Ontario home of the lowest smoking rates in the country, but thanks to the hard work of our award winners today we certainly are on the right path.”
There were a total of nine award recipients from municipalities, schools and school boards, sports clubs and community organizations. This marks the third year of PCCHU handing out these awards in recognition of community members’ hard work. Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Ontario. Each year, smoking and exposure to second-hand-smoke results in 13,000 deaths provincially. Locally, the use of commercial tobacco products kills approximately 286 Peterborough residents each year. For more information on smoke-free policies, tobacco-wise living or supports for quitting smoking, please contact Public Health, or visit the Smoke Free Places page on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca.
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For further information, please contact:
Keith Beecroft
Health Promoter, Tobacco Use Prevention
705-743-1000, ext. 238