A partnership between South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS) and the City of Cockburn has seen new smoke-free signage installed at local sporting precincts.
Led by SMHS health promotion officer Ruth Aspinall, the project started with an audit of current signage and a count of cigarette butts at six Cockburn sporting facilities.
“With an average of 9 per cent of the Cockburn population (over the age of 16) smoking, it was clear it was time to reinforce the smoke-free message,” Ms Aspinall said.
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READ NOW“Current research shows that punitive language isn’t effective in reinforcing the smoke-free message as the community has become accustomed to negative ‘no smoking’ signage.
“We have taken a new approach by strengthening the message through positive, proactive language – stating that the City of Cockburn is ‘proud to be smoke- free’.”
If the message is shown to be effective, the signage will be rolled out to all 16 sporting precincts within the City.
Cockburn recreation and community safety manager Travis Moore said the project aimed to make sporting environments safer for the community.
Smokers are encouraged to give up smoking ahead of World No Tobacco Day on May 31.
For information on quitting, visit www.makesmokinghistory.org.au.
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