Public housing to go smoke free in 2013

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - The Fort Wayne Housing Authority has approved a policy change that will prohibit smoking in all public housing units beginning Jan. 1, 2013.

Residents in Fort Wayne began receiving official notifications Thursday and residents will begin signing lease addendums that are due Dec. 31.

The Smoke-Free Policy was adopted Aug. 14 by the Board of Commissioners.

The addendums include language that the head of household will agree that each member of the residence, including guests, will not smoke in the apartment, the building, or within 20 feet of the building.

“We are eager for the health and well-being of our residents to implement this policy,” said Amy Jacobowitz, Director of Property Management in a statement.  “The dangers of second-hand smoke are well documented and the majority of FWHA residents support smoke-free housing.”

Various tobacco-free organizations applaud the effort by FWHA to keep residents safe by eliminating a health risk.

“Secondhand smoke continues to be the third leading preventable cause of death in this country, killing 1,240 non-smoking Hoosiers each year”, said Amanda Fall, Executive Director, of Tobacco Free in a statement.  “We at Tobacco Free Allen County are so excited to be a part of this important initiative that will safeguard so many from this health risk.  By eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke in their homes the Fort Wayne Housing Authority is protecting the health of all their residents.”

The American Lung Association in Indiana is offering residents a seven-week program to quit smoking. The program will begin Nov. 19 at 3:30 p.m. Transportation will be provided to those who need it. More information on the program can be found by clicking here .