Essay, Research Paper: Would You Please Smoke Outside!

Jonathan Denney
T. Huddleston
English Comp. II
10-04-99
Would You Please Smoke Outside!
While eating dinner at El Ranchito an acrid
plume of smoke wafts over my table causing my eyes to
water and my nose to become congested. Once again
another inconsiderate smoker has ruined a nice meal.
Second-hand smoke is both a danger and a discomfort
to non-smokers, and should be banned in public
facilities.
Medical research has proven that second-hand smoke
creates a higher risk of cancer and respiratory
distress in non-smokers. Children who are frequently
exposed to cigarette smoke are at a greater risk for
infections. They are also sick more often than other
children.
Cigarette smoke also plays havoc with some peoples
allergies and sinuses. When I am around a
concentrated amount of smoke my sinuses immediately
plug up, and I cannot breathe easily the rest of the
day.
Smokers may argue that they have a right to smoke,
and this freedom is being taken away by not allowing
them to smoke indoors. Smokers also believe they
should not have to brave the elements to satisfy
their addiction, and non-smokers should leave the
facility if they do not like the smoke.
I agree with smokers that our rights are slowly
being taken away by an oppressive federal government.
I also understand that smoking is legal, but I do not
condone the harming of others by second-hand smoke
just so a few smokers can smoke indoors.
In conclusion, I respect our freedoms, but smoking
should not be allowed in public buildings.
Protecting our health and the health of our children
is important, that is why I am in favor of a nation
wide ban on smoking in public facilities.



Word Count: 283