In keeping with its concern for a healthy environment and with the policies of most major attractions and other zoos across the nation, the North Carolina Zoo will become a smoke-free facility Jan. 1.

Once the new policy is in place, visitors will be asked to smoke only outside the zoo gates and no smoking facilities will be provided within the park. Visitors who wish to smoke may present their daily admission receipt for express re-entry.

Additionally, the new policy addresses the concern over the potential for fires within the park and the danger from them to the animal and plant collections. Smoking is currently prohibited within zoo buildings.

The smoking prohibition is a trend being followed by many zoos across the country, according to Steve Feldman, a spokesman for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.