Tobacco-Free Parks: Should E-Cigarettes Be Banned? (Photos)

To advocate for a healthy lifestyle, officials in Fairmont are working to promote tobacco-free parks.

When e-cigarette products are also included, some people find this "ridiculous".

City manager Robin Gomez stated that the reason for this is that Fairmont's parks should promote comprehensive health and healthier lifestyles. This is an issue, but at this point, the tobacco-free parks initiative comes from citizen proposals.

"We just feel that all tobacco must be eliminated, and this way, it reduces chaos. Additionally, some people may not want others to vape in the park," Gomez said.

Is vaping a healthier choice? Marion County Health Department's Lloyd White said nothing is exactly clear.

"We can't be sure it's a safe alternative or that there are no health risks associated with vaping," White said. "But I think there are many explosive dangers associated with vaping. Many people have been harmed because it contains batteries and a heating element."

Some of you are troubled by this. To some extent, you understand. There is a city aspect trying to promote a healthier lifestyle. However, they say it doesn't pose much harm.

"This makes no sense because it's e-cigarettes," Megan White said. "It's water; it won't harm anyone. It's not like secondhand smoke or something people spit out everywhere."

"It's a bit like saying to stay away from our parks," Robert Boshkin said. "Some e-cigarettes are only the size of a USB drive, and they release vapor, so there's no public harm. E-cigarettes have helped thousands of people quit smoking."

Gomez said a hearing will be held on July 12, encouraging citizens to express their opinions.