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