Bell Aliant Centre now tobacco-free

TheBell Aliant Centre is now a tobacco-free property thanks to a new policy implemented by the board of directors.

As of Oct. 25, no tobacco products including cigarettes,chewing tobacco and e-cigarettes are allowedanywhere on the propertyincluding all parking lots and entrances.

"We have a focus here on healthy living and our focus is on wellness and children and I can't imagine someone not coming here because of that," said general manager SueFraser.

The new policy follows oneput in place by UPEIthat made the entire campus tobacco-free.

Compliance through education

The centre will have aneducation campaign withexterior signage and announcements atall events to make patrons aware and ensure they are complying.

Beth Grant, the executive director of RecreationPEIsaid in a release that tobacco-free sports facilities are more common than not.

"Typically, compliance follows naturally with strategically placed signage and gentle reminders from fellow patrons, making fines or penalties unnecessary."

Frasersaid there are no penalties currently in place for people whobreak the rule.

Anyone who wantsto smoke or chew tobaccowill have to go to the public sidewalk outside the UPEI gates.

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