Kudos to Laguna Niguel for protecting health of residents against secondhand smoke

Congratulations to the city of Laguna Niguel for making the health of our community a priority by passing a healthy parks ordinance that will require all parks, trails and recreational areas to be 100% smoke-free. 

I am proud that the city where my children go to school and attend events has taken big steps to protect families from the dangers of secondhand smoke.

Many studies have shown that smoking bans have a significant, positive impact on public health. In fact, data from 17 studies in North America, Europe, and Australia indicate that smoke-free legislation can reduce heart disease by 10%.

Thank you to the city leadership of Laguna Niguel for keeping our health and wellbeing a priority and for paving the way for other cities in Orange County to create a healthier, cleaner and safer environment for residents, families and visitors.

Douglas Harrington
Clinical Professor, Keck School of Medicine, USC
Volunteer, American Heart Association