Health Minister Don McMorris says one option under consideration is banning tobacco use in vehicles carrying children under the age of 14.

Although, McMorris says no age has yet been set and talks with health groups are underway as the legislation is crafted.

Several provinces including Ontario and Nova Scotia already prohibit smoking in cars carrying children.

Researchers have said nicotine levels are significantly higher in smokers' cars than in non-smokers' vehicles and children are especially at risk from the effects of second-hand smoke because their lungs are smaller.

McMorris says the province is also looking at a smoking ban on restaurant patios, noting that servers are at risk from the effects of second-hand smoke.