The use of electronic products such as vaping, electronic cigarettes and cigars as well as cartridges of nicotine solutions and related products are not permitted on school property or within 20 metres of school boundaries.

This is in compliance with the Smoke-Free Ontario Act (SFOA), which is enforced locally by York Region Community and Health Services and the Tobacco and Smoke-Free Environment Policy and Procedure. A progressive form of discipline, including suspension from school and fines, is in place for students who break the law.

What are E-cigarettes, vaping, juuling?

According to Health Canada, “vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling a vapour produced by a vaping product, such as an electronic cigarette [or Juul]. Most vaping substances are flavoured and can contain nicotine. ... In the vaping substances that contain nicotine, the level of nicotine can vary widely. Some mixtures have very low levels of nicotine, while others can contain more nicotine than in a typical tobacco cigarette.”

Risks associated with vaping

York Region Public Health reports that e-cigarettes [and vapes] are being used to inhale other harmful substances such as marijuana, weight loss supplements and other drugs."

The risks of vaping include exposure to harmful chemicals, potential addiction and long-term health problems.

According to a Health Canada study, about one in five Grades 7-12 students reported trying e-cigarettes.

Fines and YRDSB Progressive Discipline

According to the York Region District School Board Smoke Free Environment Policy #461:

• Smoking, holding or consuming lighted or heated tobacco or cannabis products, is prohibited on and within 20 metres of Board property or in personal vehicles parked on Board property.
• The SFOA also prohibits the smoking and vaping of medical cannabis on and within 20 metres of school grounds. Failure to comply could result in progressive discipline actions, including but not limited to suspension

In addition to potential school discipline, smoking or vaping can result in fines up to $5,000 set forth by the Government of Ontario.

To report an incident, call 1-800-361-5653 ext 4. Report the complaint with "York Region Health Protection," who will dispatch a Tobacco Enforcement Officer (will respond within 24-48 hours).

Resources

If you or your child is struggling with drug and/or alcohol use, help is available.

• Partnership for Drug Free Kids - How to Talk To Your Kids About Vaping

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