Yes, it’s that time of year again. Time to commit to personal goals, projects, changing or losing a habit, or in other words time for a “New Year’s Resolution.”  Here’s an idea for property owners. How about making your property Smoke-Free? Here are several reasons why.

They save you time and money. Smoke-free units are easier to clean, there’s less risk of smoke-related fires (insurance premiums may go down) and you save money by not having to replace carpeting, appliances and repaint walls damaged by smoke.

You also increase the safety and health of your tenants. Smoking is still the leading cause of fire deaths in the U.S. and up to 60 percent of air from second-hand smoke leaving an apartment leaks into the unit next door. Secondhand smoke cannot be contained.

In 2013, the Wisconsin Hispanic Latino Tobacco Prevention Network (WHLTPN) is joining other community partners to promote “Clear Gains,” Wisconsin’s Smoke-Free Housing Initiative. We’re looking to help property owners voluntarily initiate smoke-free policies in their properties. Enacting a smoke-free policy in public or privately owned housing is legal and protects property owners from legal action from residents who’ve been exposed to second hand smoke or endangered by smokers.

For a free step-by-step guide to implementing a smoke-free policy, enforcement tips or signage please visit www.wismokefreehousing.com or for additional questions or guidance please contact the WHLTPN at (414) 389-6505.

Sincerely,

Ana Rodriguez

WHLTPN