Officials at the Thunder Bay Health Sciences Centre say they’re crackdown of smoking on hospital property is working.
The enforcement of the decade-old smoking rule began Sept. 30. Two months later, no tickets have been issued yet.
Despite a lack of tickets, reporters with Thunder Bay Television did witness people lighting up in very public areas, including at the entrance to the Emergency Department.
Fresh cigarette butts are also visible around the hospital grounds.
Executive vice-president Dr. Mark Henderson says despite that, he believes smokers are getting the message.
Under the terms of the ban, people aren't allowed to smoke anywhere on the hospital grounds, even in their cars.
People can walk to Golf Links Road or Oliver Road to light up, but patients with a hospital IV aren't allowed to leave the hospital’s property.
Henderson says he's had good feedback from smokers, whenever he's approached them about the crackdown.
Smoking on hospital property could result in a fine of up to $200.
(Thunder Bay Television)
