A one-year trial smoking ban in three playgrounds of the Parc de Montsouris has been initiated in Paris. Giant ashtrays have been installed at the entrances to the three play areas. The initiative is likely to be extended to other outdoor public spaces. The measure was introduced recently as part of a government-sponsored campaign to reduce the high number of smoking-related deaths in France, around 73,000. Those breaching the playground ban will be given formal warnings and fines will be introduced at a later stage.

Electronic cigarettes, which have become extremely popular in France, will most probably be banned in some public places next year according to the French Health Minister, Marisol Touraine.

Smoking is now technically banned in all inside public places in France, including cafes, restaurants, stations and museums. Next up: plain cigarette packaging will be introduced along with a ban on smoking in cars carrying children under 12.