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It is important to keep cars smoke-free

Published: 07 February 2012

Motorists should avoid smoking in their vehicles on days out, especially if they have young families.

According to new research, children who are exposed to second-hand smoke in cars are more likely to suffer from chest problems such as asthma and bronchitis.

Opening a window does little to help and the toxic chemicals that smoking releases into the atmosphere linger in the roof lining and upholstery even after the cigarette is stubbed out.

In Wales, the government has launched a Fresh Start Wales Campaign, which aims to stub out in-car smoking.

Dr Tony Jewell, Wales' chief medical officer, said: "Children are particularly at risk from second-hand smoke, especially in vehicles where a confined space means there is no respite from the harm of the toxic chemicals in cigarettes."

If the campaign does not succeed in tackling the problem, the government may consider an all-out ban against smoking in cars where children are present.

There are some US states where such bans are in place, and in South Africa motorists are not allowed to smoke in their vehicles at all.