Prison

A prison is an enclosed living area for the prisoners and for the guards while they are at work. Allowing prisoners to smoke endangers nonsmoking prisoners who are confined as well as guards who work in the smoke. Cigarettes and smoke cause extensive damage to prison property and are a risk for fire because of the prisoners’ having matches, lighters and cigarettes.

Steps for Success:

• Determine the decision-makers and the channels for decision-making at the prison.

• Make contact with local prison health personnel and the warden to discuss their interest in becoming smoke-free.

• Distribute information about smoking and secondhand smoke problems at prisons.

• Ensure that the officials are aware of the benefits of a smoke-free prison, including how the Americans with Disabilities Act may apply to prison populations.

• Provide a list of other prisons in the state and nation that have smoke-free policies.

• Work with a doctor to document how secondhand smoke may adversely affect nonsmoking prisoners and staff, including letters and affidavits.

• Have a plan to react to any conflicts (industry, smoking employees and prisoners).

• Develop a media advocacy plan to publicize the problems associated with prisoner exposure to secondhand smoke, remembering the issue is a right to breathe clean air, even for those incarcerated.

• Plan carefully for positive incentives, like certificates of recognition and financial help for stop-smoking kits to encourage or reward the policy change.

• Consider a phase-in of the policy, perhaps 4-6 months to allow for adequate time for planning.