It's getting harder and harder for the smoke to get in the eyes of non-smokers. And there is no reason for smokers to complain.

Smoking is an addiction that endangers the lives of everyone who comes into contact with the fumes. Exposure to secondhand smoke can be just as deadly as lighting up a cigarette firsthand. There is no reason why a nonsmoker's life should be endangered by the vices of others.

Recently, McDonald's Corp. banned smoking from all of its company-owned restaurants and urged its franchises to do the same. The Nittany Mall also decided to go smoke free, and the Defense Department ordered smoking to stop in all offices and anywhere else that is designated a workplace.

No one in this country tolerates drunk drivers -- they jeopardize the lives of everyone they encounter on the road.

Smoking poses an equally troubling risk to others. And just as drinking is legal, so is smoking. However, both actions must be performed with caution and concern for others.

Kudos go out to McDonald's, the Nittany Mall, the Defense Department and all of the other businesses that have banned smoking from their premises. Kudos also to the Clinton administration for proposing an increased "sin tax" on cigarettes -- it might cause smokers to smoke less, especially around nonsmokers.

Other businesses should follow suit. Although they may say goodbye to some customers, the remaining patrons will probably be grateful.

Clean air is not just a new idea that has suddenly gained popularity; it is a simple, common courtesy that may finally become a reality.