How to Take Action to Phase out Smoking in Society

The dangers of smoking to both smokers and non-smokers are well-established. While we may live in a free society where the government cannot regulate personal habits like smoking, we can still take action to phase out smoking in society. Whether you're a smoker yourself or are concerned about secondhand smoke, here's how to get involved.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Decide that you will not smoke. Societal change begins with the individual. Once you commit to not smoking, you immediately lessen the rate at which smoking can grow.
2. Educate yourself on the facts surrounding smoking. Learn all you can about the connection between smoking and cancer, heart disease and other health issues. Having access to reliable information helps as you take action to phase out smoking in society.
3. Learn about the tools smokers use to quit. This enables you to offer practical solutions when you speak with others about how to quit smoking.
4. Talk with your friends and family who smoke about the dangers of smoking. Take care to avoid being critical or condescending, as you aren't likely to win any converts that way. Instead, take a concerned approach, and explain to friends and family who smoke that you care about them and worry about their health.
5. Organize community events to raise awareness. Participating in annual smokeout challenge events, and encourage others to do the same.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid the temptation to take action to phase out smoking in society by the force of law. Real long-term societal change takes place in the minds and hearts of individuals, not in the halls of the legislature.