News and Events
DeSoto County Fair Adopts Tobacco Free Policy
March 1, 2024
DESOTO COUNTY, FLORIDA – The DeSoto County Fair Board of Directors is taking extreme measures to make the fairgrounds as safe as possible. One of which, by implementing a Tobacco Free Policy.
For the past few years, creating a safer environment by pushing for more tobacco-free events/venues in DeSoto County has been at the forefront of our local tobacco program’s focus. In fact, the Tobacco Free Partnership of DeSoto County has successfully helped implement several policies, with large impacts on our community including but not limited to DeSoto County School District, DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce, Mosaic Arena, DeSoto County Parks, Saturday Night Lights, and our most recent, City of Arcadia Parks.
Tobacco Free Events send a very important message: that the community’s health and well-being are a priority. Secondhand smoke can be harmful to non-smokers, especially children, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions. These anti-tobacco environments allow attendees to enjoy an event without the worry of being exposed smoke or vapor, provide an environment that shows youth tobacco use is not the norm, and supports those that have made the difficult decision to quit tobacco.
Additionally, implementing a tobacco-free policy aligns with the broader public health goals of reducing tobacco use and its associated health risks. It sends a clear message about the importance of creating smoke-free spaces and encourages a culture of wellness.
Fairgrounds are often family-friendly environments, and a tobacco-free policy contributes to a more family-oriented atmosphere. With several events happening at the Fairgrounds throughout the year, bringing in thousands of attendees, the DeSoto County Fair Association Board of Directors felt that adopting the policy was a logical first step to show that protecting DeSoto County residents is a community effort. It sets a positive example for young attendees and creates a more inclusive space for people of all ages. This policy also contributes to environmental benefits by reducing litter associated with tobacco products. Cigarette butts are a significant source of litter, and by eliminating smoking on fairgrounds, we contribute to keeping the environment cleaner and safer for everyone.
 Heather Fugate, Board Chair, helps place tobacco free signage around the fairgrounds. Twenty-five signs were provided to the DeSoto County Fair Association on behalf of our local Tobacco Free Partnership. |
New signage, provided by the DeSoto County Tobacco Free Partnership, was posted to designate the grounds tobacco-free. The policy states that no smoking areas/zones are designated as follows: All fair entrances. Kiddie carnival area. Covered grandstands. Within 20 feet of all buildings. Within 20 feet of Gazebo Stage area. Within 20 feet of food and drink vendors. Entire walkway between the main gate and around the midway. |
During the 2024 DeSoto County Fair, taking place February 2-10, DeSoto County Tobacco Free Partnership Members and Students Working Against Tobacco Volunteers will be available to answer questions and educate attendees on the dangers of tobacco use.
“This policy alone will have a huge impact on our rural community,” says Jodie DeLoach, Tobacco Program Manager for DeSoto County. “The Fair Board has gone above and beyond to not only reduce the social norm of tobacco use in our rural community, but also protect the health and wellness of the thousands of people that attend their events. We greatly thank them for adopting this policy and putting the health and safety of our community at the forefront.”
While we are proud of the success we have had locally, the buck does not stop here. The Tobacco Free Partnership is currently looking to increase the amount of tobacco free venues/events policies within DeSoto County, especially at events with a large youth attendance. Our young people are fiercely targeted by Big Tobacco to create lifelong tobacco users. Between flavored tobacco products and the popularity of electronic devices, our youth are at a substantially high risk of experimenting and picking up a lasting habit. Creating environments free of toxic exposure and influence is truly a priceless effort in fighting this battle.
Tobacco Free Events can also attract a broader audience and increase overall attendance. By choosing to make your event Tobacco Free, you are sending the message that the health and safety of your participants is of utmost importance, and the best news of all, adopting a Tobacco Free policy doesn’t have to be complicated. QuitDoc Foundation, along with the Tobacco Free Partnership of DeSoto County will make it a remarkably smooth process, assisting with policy initiation, implementation, and any additional support needed.
For information regarding quitting smoking, including free Nicotine Replacement Therapy, visit Tobaccofreeflorida.com. For further information regarding the tobacco-free policy adoption and implementation, contact Jodie DeLoach, DeSoto County Tobacco Program Manager at jdeloach@quitdoc.com
