Currently, when you walk into a convenience store that sells tobacco, you are likely to see a large display of tobacco products behind the counter.

These displays, called Power Walls, have been a strong marketing tactic used for years by the tobacco industry. Tobacco displays are often much larger than the stock actually needed to supply the market, sending children a message that using tobacco products is socially acceptable and widespread.

This counteracts other messages they may receive about the health risks of tobacco product use.

Seeing tobacco displays also makes it more difficult for people who are trying to quit. And for those who have quit, the displays make it harder to remain tobacco-free. Research shows that more than 60 per cent of tobacco purchases are impulse buys, regardless of the addictiveness of the product.

The tobacco display ban takes effect on May 31, World No Tobacco Day. The ban will prohibit any tobacco product from being in open view of the customer. Up to three signs that indicate the availability of tobacco will be the only way a customer will know if the store sells tobacco.

All tobacco retailers must post warning of the legal age to purchase tobacco products and health warnings. The ban on retail display is a giant leap toward helping influence people's behaviour by making tobacco use less "normal".

Ontario is not alone in banning tobacco displays, Quebec will also ban displays the end of May. Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Nunavut already have similar legislation in place. The Grey Bruce Health Unit is working with local tobacco retailers to ensure a smooth transition and compliance with the Smoke-Free Ontario Act.

Another advance in tobacco control is the proposed Private Member's Bill 11 that would regulate and make it an offence to smoke a tobacco product in a private vehicle with a child under the age of 16 years. Nova Scotia was the first province to put similar legislation into effect on April 1.

For more information on the Smoke-Free Ontario Act and the tobacco display ban, please contact the Grey Bruce Health Unit at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456, or click the link provided.