Mayor Nutter has cleared the air for thousands of youngsters this summer with an executive order banning smoking at city recreation centers, playgrounds, and pools.
With too many young people lighting up, banning smoking in playground areas is the right idea. The measure carries no penalties because it is not a law approved by City Council, which could take longer to enact. But it sends the right public-health message to youngsters and adults.
Nutter rightly wants to reduce smoking among all city residents, especially adolescents and teenagers. Health officials estimate that smoking leads to nearly 2,500 deaths annually in Philadelphia. That's more deaths than those from homicide, HIV, diabetes, kidney failure, and stroke combined.
