For many people, smoking cigars remains a popular past time. Years ago, it was considered glamorous to smoke tobacco. In old black and white movies and many vintage television shows, the stars are always seen lighting up. In today's society, smoking is considered taboo. More and more you see advertisements that proclaim the dangers of smoking. Restaurants have banned them as have most other public places. You can no longer smoke on means of public transportation, such as planes, buses and trains. This is why cigar lovers should follow proper smoking etiquette.
What is Proper Smoking Etiquette?
Proper smoking etiquette allows a cigar smoker to enjoy their tobacco without being offensive to others. There are many ways to do this. First, be aware that the smoke has a lingering odor that clings to clothes, hair and furniture. While you're smoking your cigar, you get used to the smell and are unaware that it's permeating everything in the room, including the walls.
If you're going to smoke inside a room, be sure that there is an open window for better ventilation. It is better to smoke outside, to keep the home free of the smell of cigar smoke. When smoking outside, be sure to do so away from other people, especially pregnant women, children and the elderly. Smoke is full of carcinogens that can be harmful to others when inhaled by them. Also, non-smokers do not appreciate having the smell of the smoke cling to them.
If you are smoking in a park or some other public place, make sure that no one near you is eating. It is considered rude to smoke around people who are trying to enjoy their meal, as the smell of smoke will probably ruin it for them. Be aware of the signs that proclaim that smoking is prohibited posted in many places. Respect this by not lighting up in prohibited areas. There are places that have designated smoking areas where you can freely enjoy your cigar. Find out if the place you are in has one of these areas.
Smoking cigars is often a social event. Try to only smoke around other smokers. If you are in the company of non-smokers, always ask permission before you smoke and don't be upset or surprised if they say no. People have become very aware of the dangers of second hand smoke and they are entitled to protect their health.
Be considerate of the ashes that fall from cigars and make sure that they have been properly extinguished when you put them out. Lit cigar stubs and their ashes can be blown by the wind and could start a fire. They can also hurt people with allergies and other breathing problems if the ashes are inhaled by them.
By following proper cigar smoking etiquette, you can always enjoy your cigar while letting others enjoy there right to a smoke free environment.
Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as Cigar Lighters, Accessories and Humidors at http://www.cubancigarsplus.com
