SAFE Glen Cove Coalition: The Great American Smoke Out

The American Cancer Society marks the Great American Smoke Out (GASO) on the third Thursday of November each year by encouraging smokers to use the date to make a quit plan or to plan on quitting smoking that day. By quitting, even for one day, smokers will be moving towards a healthier life – one that can lead to reducing their risk of cancer related illnesses.

Every year on this special day the SAFE Glen Cove Coalition partners with the Tobacco Action Coalition of LI (TAC) and the Glen Cove Youth Bureau to raise awareness of the need to educate students on the dangers of all tobacco products, reduce youth’s exposure to tobacco marketing at their local retailers, and to protect the public from second-hand and drifting smoke outside while they recreate, dine or even on the grounds or doorways of places they frequently go.

On the week of November 15th, Glen Cove School District students took part GASO, as SAFE’s Social Worker Francesca Carbone brought GASO to the Glen Cove elementary and middle schools’ After 3 Program. She discussed the dangers of smoking, vaping and e-cigarettes, and the significance of this event help others begin their journey to quit smoking. Working with Carol Meschkow- Community Engagement Manager (TAC), Ms. Carbone presented a power point on the history of when the event first began, facts, statistics and other resources on tobacco uses in cigarettes and vaping products. The presentation allowed the students to ask questions and comment on the videos presented within the power point. It allowed the students to take the opportunity to remind their friends and families that this day should be their first day towards quitting this deadly habit.

Afterwards, the students were provided with a short virtual multiple-choice quiz, as to test their knowledge about tobacco and smoking affects/ statistics. Then they all signed the GASO pledge to stay tobacco free and continue to raise awareness in helping others begin their journey to quit smoking.

The Coalition will continue to spread awareness of the harmful effects of smoking/vaping tobacco products along with other drug prevention efforts and environmental strategies by educating Glen Cove’s youth and community.

To learn more about the SAFE Glen Cove Coalition please follow us on www.facebook.com/safeglencove or visit SAFE’s Vaping Facts and Myths page at www.safeglencove.org to learn more about the dangers of smoking e-cigarettes.

For Quit help contact the NYS Quit Line: at 1-866-NYS-Quits.