It's butts out for this New Westminster-based college

Douglas College is snuffing out cigarettes for good.

The New Westminster-based college is putting an end to smoking on campus starting Sept. 1. The ban will extend to chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, vaping and cannabis and include the New Westminster and Coquitlam campuses, as well as Douglas College’s training centres, parkades and parking lots.

“We are dedicated to providing a healthy and safe environment for both employees and students, as well as the community around Douglas. This change lets us join the growing ranks of public institutions that are going smoke-free,” said Nancy Constable, director of safety, security and risk management, in a press release.

The decision comes after a campus-wide survey revealed more than 75 per cent of respondents were bothered by second-hand smoke, while 23 per cent of smokers who responded said they wanted to quit, according to the press release.

Douglas College plans to support smokers looking to quit by providing them information on smoking cessation programs.

Currently, smoking is allowed in designated areas on campus. The new policy, which the college expects to be approved within the next month, would see these designated areas removed. The ban would not include burning substances for Aboriginal and cultural purposes (ie: smudging), notes the release.

A facts sheet provided by Douglas College recommends students who must smoke go off campus to do so. However, it encourages smokers to exercise caution, especially at night, and to stay in groups and in well-lit areas.

People caught smoking on Douglas College property or on campus after Sept. 1 will be asked to stop or leave the property. If they refuse they could be found in contravention of the student conduct policy, which could result in sanctions including suspension, community service, educational sanctions, restitution or verbal and written apologies. There is no monetary fine.