Banner proclaims hospital's smokefree status
Health officials have put up a large banner to remind people that Whangarei Hospital and its grounds are totally smokefree.
Northland District Health Board said its commitment to creating a smokefree hospital environment has seen the introduction of new Smokefree/Auahi kore banner on Maunu House at Whangarei Hospital.
Over the past six months all Northland DHB hospitals have had Smokefree signs installed and their main entrances are now flying free-standing Smokefree tear drop banners.
A large banner was blessed at Maunu House yesterday
"It's about raising public awareness of our smokefree policy. Smoking is not permitted on hospital grounds or in buildings," smokefree advisor and hospital facilitator Bridget Rowse said.
"Our aim is simply to create a supportive environment that encourages people to consider quitting smoking and highlight the many sources of help available," Ms Rowse said.
Facilities manager Brett Attwood said since going smokefree the hospital had seen a decrease in the number of people smoking outside of the main entrance and grounds staff had noticed fewer cigarette butts.
"It's about role modelling positive behaviours whilst working in a healthcare environment," Ms Rowse said.
To get help to quit smoking talk to your local health professional, an Aukati Kai Paipa quit coach www.aukatikaipaipa.co.nz or call Quitline on 0800 778 7788, or visit www.quit.org.nz.
