NORTH PLATTE—“Quit like a champion!” is the theme of the Great American Smokeout, observed November 19 this year. The annual event was started by the American Cancer Society (ACS), and is always the third Thursday of November.

Tobacco Free Lincoln County Coalition (TFLC) is partnering with ACS, to encourage people to call upon the champion inside, and conquer the smoking habit. TFLC Coordinator George Haws said a champion needs cheerleaders and a coach. He recommends that people ask their friends and family members to be their cheerleaders. As for a coach, he suggests calling the Nebraska Tobacco Quit Line, at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).

People can also take advantage of local resources, like the quit classes at Great Plains Health. The number to call about the classes is (308) 696-7530.

The following “5-day countdown,” from a pamphlet published by Tobacco Free Nebraska, can also be helpful.

5 – First, set a date to quit. Tell your friends and family, so they can encourage you. Quit buying cigarettes. Think about your reasons for quitting.

4 – Pay attention to when and why you smoke. Think of habits or routines to change. Think of other things to hold in your hand instead of a cigarette.

3 – Think of who to reach out to when you need help. Think about what you will do with the extra money when you stop buying cigarettes.

2 – Talk to your doctor about the nicotine patch or other nicotine replacement products or medications. (You may need to make an appointment well in advance, to see your doctor.)

1 – The day before your quit date, throw away all cigarettes and matches. Put away lighters and ash trays. Clean your clothes to get rid of the cigarette smell.

0 – YOUR QUIT DATE: Remind family and friends that this is the day! Stay away from alcohol. Give yourself a treat or do something special!

If you slip and smoke, don’t give up. Set a new date and get back on track. And remember, eating healthy food and getting exercise will help, too.

Tobacco Free Lincoln County is a collaborative effort that focuses on keeping youth from starting to use tobacco, reducing access to tobacco products, and increasing awareness about the dangers of secondhand smoke. It is funded by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement agreement.