Father’s Day is a day to celebrate Dads for who they are and all they do.
Dads who smoke can celebrate Father’s Day by quitting, and by taking actions to protect their kids from becoming one of the tobacco industry’s addicted customers and victims. Here are some ways:
If you smoke, quit. Ask your physician for help. Call 1 800 QUIT NOW for coaching
Maintain a totally smoke-free home
Educate your child about the dangers of smoking (nicotine addiction, the immediate health effects, and the effects on physical appearance) and the dangers of secondhand smoke, inside or outside. (Fifty percent of children ages 3-11 had recent exposure to secondhand smoke during one recent study period)
Listen and encourage the child when they make good choices
Make sure your kids’ schools have strong and well-enforced (24/7) tobacco free grounds; (Most do not)
Dads are one of the most important influencers in their children’s lives. You can make a big difference in the choices your kids make.
Kevin Lusk
Chair, Smokefree Chattanooga