Yellowknife (Sep 10/03) - As of Jan. 1, the Super 8 Motel in Yellowknife will be smoke free.

After seeking a waiver from Super 8 granting support for the decision, Paul Dodd, general manager of the Yellowknife Super 8, has set his plan in motion.

Susie Thompson, a housekeeper at Super 8, is excited that dumping ashes and cigarette butts will no longer be part of her job as of Jan. 1. - Colleen Moore/NNSL photo

"Nobody has told me this would be a bad idea," said Dodd. "It's good business sense for hotels."

Although the recently passed smoking bylaw includes all public places, motels and hotels have been exempt, partially based on the argument that they are considered temporary residences.

However Dodd explained that there are many reasons for his decision.

"First and foremost is the concern for employees," said Dodd.

He explained non-smoking rooms means less wear and tear, which in the long run can improve operating costs.

"I have seen statistics that prove 80 to 95 per cent of fires in hotels are caused by cigarettes," said Dodd. Although he acknowledged it's a slightly riskier business decision based on Yellowknife's geographic location, Dodd feels very confident that this will not have any major impact on business.

"In the past this has worked very well," said Dodd. "There are more non-smokers than smokers."