Smoke-Free Homes for Kids

Smoke-Free Homes for Kids



Feb 2007 - Sherry Pierce of 
Arkansas' Black River Area Development Head Start program is 
using new tools and outreach techniques to teach parents about 
the dangers of secondhand smoke to their children. 
Asthma is a growing problem for Head Start families, and for 
the nation as a whole. About 20 percent of children with 
asthma are exposed to secondhand smoke in their homes. 
Pierce says the families of her Head State children used and 
appreciated the Smoke-free Homes Kits that are central to the 
education effort. 
By taking steps to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, Head 
Start families can reduce or prevent serious health risks such 
as more frequent and severe asthma attacks, upper and lower 
respiratory tract infections, and acute middle ear infections. 

"Every parent hopes their child will grow up happy, healthy 
and strong," said Bill Wehrum, acting assistant administrator 
for the U.S. Environmental Protection's Office of Air and 
Radiation. "By providing a smoke-free home environment, 
parents can keep their children on the path toward a promising 
future." 
Head Start children and their families could face fewer asthma 
attacks due to a new agreement between the U.S. EPA and the 
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, HHS. The 
agencies have decided to work together to educate Head Start 
families about the risks their children face from secondhand 
smoke and other environmental asthma triggers. 
"Asthma is the most common chronic childhood disease among 
Head Start children," said HHS Assistant Secretary for 
Children and Families Wade Horn. "I look forward to working 
with the EPA to educate Head Start families on creating the 
healthiest homes possible for their children." 
The EPA will work with Head Start state collaboration offices 
to educate Head Start staff and families about comprehensive 
asthma environmental management practices and secondhand smoke 
prevention.

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