First-time violators will be verbally reminded of the smoking ban, but additional infractions can result in a fine from the Dayton VA Police, according to the announcement.
» RELATED: Drones nearly hit planes 117 times in Ohio in 5 years
The new policy prohibits all “combustible tobacco products and smoking materials,” which includes cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, cigars, pipes, matches, lighters, and lighting fluid, according to the press release. The ban applies to all patients, employees, visitors, vendors, volunteers, and contractors.
The VA cited the health risks of smoking and secondhand and thirdhand smoke as a reason for the ban. The decision was also made to reduce the risk associated with oxygen tanks and other flammable gasses, according to the press release.
The more than 50,000 vets living in the area served by the Dayton VA were notified of the change to the smoking policy over the past several months via letters, social media posts, press releases, and town hall meetings conducted by phone, according to the agency.
The Dayton VA is offering tobacco treatment services for all enrolled veterans and they can get more information by contacting their primary care provider. The VA also offers a free smoking cessation benefit to employees, including access to nicotine replacement therapy.
FIVE FAST READS
• Central State trying to build on momentum from financial rebound
• Wright State nursing program grows as the university shrinks overall
• Wright-Patt tops 30K employees for first time in 30 years
• Would governor’s 17-point plan stopped Sunday’s gun violence?
• Gov. DeWine: ‘Changes certainly have to be made at Wright State’
About the Author