Is it difficult for you to ask your friends and family members not to smoke in your home and car?

Don’t forget, you’re not asking them to stop smoking, but simply to respect your decision to live smoke-free while they are visiting or riding with you. Here are some suggestions for how to proceed diplomatically:

• Use a polite and respectful, but firm tone. Make it understood to smokers that you are not asking them to stop smoking. With this approach, your request should be well received.
• Ideally, warn visitors in advance that they will not be able to smoke in the house, especially if they will be staying several days with you. Do the same thing if you plan to take a drive with a smoker.
• During long car trips, plan stops in safe areas to accommodate people who smoke.
• Don’t forget to say “thank you” for smoking outside and to emphasize that you appreciate the cooperation.

It is easier to have your decision to live smoke-free respected if you clearly identify yourself as a Smoke-Free Family. If you wish, put up the Take Your Butt Outside mini-poster in an obvious place, to remind everyone that your home is a “No-Smoke Zone.” Put it up by the front door, on windows, on the fridge, etc. The same goes for your car.