Southampton - Southampton Hospital will be implementing a new policy to create a totally tobacco-free environment at the Hospital and all 16 offsites. The policy will be implemented on November 18, 2010, in celebration of National Smoke Out day. With smoking and breathing second-hand smoke being the leading causes of many illnesses, the Hospital has an obligation to the community to address this issue.

"We are optimistic that the new policy will help us reach our goal of ensuring a healthy environment for our patients, their families and our staff," said Southampton Hospital's President and CEO Robert S. Chaloner.

Although the buildings have been tobacco-free for many years, people have been permitted to smoke in designated areas outside of the facilities. These smoking areas will be removed on November 18 in order to eliminate the dangers from second-hand smoke and to continue to fulfill the Hospital's mission by promoting a healthy lifestyle. The new policy will apply to all Southampton Hospital facilities and their grounds, including parking lots.

In anticipation of this new policy, the Hospital is offering smoking cessation classes through the Ed & Phyllis Davis Wellness Institute. In addition, nicotine replacement products, such as nicotine gum or lozenges, will be available at the Hospital for employees, patients, and visitors.

For information about the smoking cessation classes please call the Ed & Phyllis Davis Wellness Institute at 631-726-8800.