A wall at the Mesquite Recreation Center shows the local support for the American Lung Association in Nevada effort to promote smoke-free places.
More than 3,000 members of Mesquite’s estimated population of 15,423 have added their names to the wall display.
Amy Beaulieu, who holds a master’s degree in health administration and is the American Lung Association in Nevada Director of Programs, notes, in a press release, that with “three major casinos, many of Mesquite’s residents breathe smoke day in and day out while they are at work. Employees working in smoky venues are 39 percent more likely to get lung cancer when compared to workers who are not subjected to second-hand smoke.”
“There is no level of risk-free exposure,” said Linda Gault, who said she believes all workplaces should be smoke-free. "Some people mistakenly think this is a political issue. It's not; it's simply a matter of public health and protecting our friends and family."
"We have an opportunity to be the leaders when it comes to creating healthy work environments for our friends and family," said Darlene Tornes, another supporter of the smoke-free idea. "There are decades of research documenting the negative health effects of secondhand smoke. That's why I added my name to the list. I don't want my loved ones to have to breathe in second-hand smoke in indoor places."
Supporters say they believe when residents and leaders realize they could save lives by preventing public exposure to second-hand smoke in indoor places, Mesquite will give serious consideration to becoming Nevada's first smoke-free destination.
Residents and visitors can check out the signed cards on display at the Mesquite Recreation Center, located at 100 W. Old Mill Road.