Sixth Annual “Take a Bite Out of Smoking” Campaign Begins

Campaign recognizes and supports local restaurants voluntarily offering smoke-free dining

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 1, 2005

LAS VEGAS – Nov. 1, 2005 – The Southern Nevada Health District Tobacco Control Program’s sixth annual “Take a Bite Out of Smoking” campaign began Monday, Oct. 31. The campaign recognizes and supports local restaurants that promote healthy life style choices by offering smoke-free dining environments. Beginning with seven participating restaurants in 1999, the campaign has grown to include more than 300 county restaurants.

This year’s campaign features a new “Smoke-Free Dining: Buy One Get One Free Coupon Book.” The free books contain money-saving offers for smoke-free restaurants throughout the county. Diners can stop by participating restaurants to pick up a coupon book, or request one (while supplies last) by visiting www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org or calling (702) 759-1270.

“We urge all restaurant patrons to show their support for smoke-free dining establishments, and encourage more local restaurant owners to make their establishments smoke free,” said Dr. Lawrence Sands, director of community health for the district.

To achieve smoke-free status, a restaurant must meet several criteria. First, it must have an interior seating area. Second, the interior of the restaurant must be completely smoke free year round. Finally, the dining area of any restaurant must be separated and completely isolated from any area where smoking is permitted, such as an adjoining bar or lounge.

The “Take a Bite Out of Smoking” campaign is paid for by grant funds received by the Southern Nevada Health District Tobacco Control Program from the Taskforce for the Fund for a Healthy Nevada (tobacco master settlement money).

For additional information and a list of participating smoke-free restaurants, visit www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org or call the Southern Nevada Health District at (702) 759-1270.

Visit the Media Contacts webpage for media related inquiries.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.