World Smokefree May 2015

World Smokefree May 2015

Northland Quit Smoking Road Show
A Quit Smoking Road Show has kicked off in Northland as part of the World Smokefree May celebrations leading up to World Smokefree Day on Sunday May 31.

The first Quit Stall was held in Kaitaia on May 1 with others following in Rawene, Kaikohe, Dargaville, Kaeo and Whangarei.

The Quit Smoking Road Show is designed to help people quit smoking and show them what support is available, including new nicotine replacement therapy devices, like the inhaler and the QuikMist, along with patches, gum and lozenges.

These events are also designed to raise awareness and show support for Smokefree cars.

The effect of smoke in cars is simulated at these promotions using a fog machine.

Northland DHB Smokefree advisor and spokesperson for Smokefree Northland Coalition Patu Puauahi, Bridget Rowse, says the Smokefree car demonstrations are a call for action.

“They are highlighting the message that second-hand smoke is harmful to children’s health.

Surveys have shown that nine out of 10 New Zealanders support a ban on smoking in cars carrying children.”

The Maori Affairs Select Committee Report on its inquiry into the tobacco industry and the consequences of tobacco use for Maori made a recommendation that the government investigate extending the Smoke-free Environments Act to legislate against smoking in certain areas, such as vehicles, vehicles carrying children, and specific public places.

“As yet there has been no active government intervention to protect New Zealand children from tobacco smoke harm in cars, so it is important to educate and encourage people to stop smoking in cars when children are present.”

To get help to stop smoking, talk to your local health provider, Aukati Kai Paipa quit coach www.aukatikaipapa.co.nz or call Quitline on 0800 778 778.

ENDS

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