Watch for “Smokerman” on TV, a toy superhero that can’t keep up with other superheroes because he smokes.
• Research shows kids who talk to their parents about tobacco are less likely to use tobacco.
• According to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, parents can be effective if they:
o Set an example. If you smoke, quit. We are getting ready to start a new year, and it’s a great resolution to make for yourself and your family.
o Discuss immediate, physical effects. Discuss the effects of tobacco that happen quickly, like coughing, reduced physical performance and bad breath.
o Discuss physical appearance. Discuss the effects of tobacco on one’s physical appearance like yellow teeth, wrinkles and smelly clothes.
o Discuss tobacco Facts. For example, cigarettes contain more than 4,000 chemicals like ammonia (used to clean toilets), arsenic (used to poison rats) and formaldehyde (used to preserve dead bodies).
Supporting Messages
• The ads mimic toy commercials found on Saturday morning cartoons, but provide an important health message instead.
• A life-sized Smokerman doll is visiting retail locations around Utah during the holiday season to raise awareness of the dangers of tobacco. Currently, you can see him at the Megaplex 20 at the District in South Jordan.
• Nationally, every day more than 1,500 people under the age of 18 become regular smokers.
• About one-third of them will eventually die from a tobacco-related disease.
• More than 230,000 Utah residents continue to use tobacco
• More than 1,100 Utahns die annually as a result of their own tobacco use.
• For more information visit www.fighttheugly.com.
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