SEPTA is taking steps to minimize riders’ exposure to secondhand smoke on the transit system by launching an educational campaign aimed at helping people quit smoking.
The initiative, scheduled to run from Sept. 17-26, will not only target smokers but will be extended to all riders at select subway and trolley stations. Flyers containing information on ways to quit smoking along with nicotine reduction tool kits will be distributed during this period.
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SEPTA, in collaboration with the Department of Public Health, will have representatives handing out flyers at specific Market-Frankford Line and Broad Street Line stations at designated times:
• Tuesday, Sept. 17: City Hall, 8-10 a.m.; Snyder (BSL), 4-6 p.m.
• Wednesday, Sept. 18: City Hall, 4-6 p.m.
• Thursday, Sept. 19: Eighth Street (MFL), 8-10 a.m.
• Tuesday, Sept. 24: Drexel Station at 30th Street, 4-6 p.m.
• Wednesday, Sept. 25: Spring Garden (BSL), 8-10 a.m.
• Thursday, Sept. 26: 13th Street (MFL and Trolley), 4-6 p.m.
SEPTA stated that this educational campaign is part of its ongoing efforts to improve the customer experience. Last summer, SEPTA and the Department of Public Health placed signs at stations as part of the “Respect the Ride” campaign to discourage smoking in subway cars.
SEPTA has heightened its enforcement of quality-of-life violations, such as smoking, by introducing fines ranging from $25-150 for violators. Previously, fines were not court-enforced, but the change was made to address a lack of self-regulation among passengers amid the pandemic.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, secondhand smoke can lead to various health issues in non-smokers, including coronary heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. It also poses risks to infants and children, increasing their chances of developing respiratory infections, asthma, and other conditions.
The World Health Organization has recommended combining medication and behavioral interventions for effective tobacco cessation programs. Pennsylvania’s Quitline (800-784-8669) and resources provided by the city’s health department are available to support individuals looking to quit smoking.
Aside from quitting smoking information, the flyers will include a coupon that can be redeemed at SEPTA’s store, located online and at 1234 Market St.