New York Takes Anti-Smoking Campaign Outside

In the land of freedom, it seems that smokers are the about the only group of people that is not able to freely pursue their habit. New York City officials have begun the debate on whether or not to ban smoking in parks and outdoor areas, which means that many European countries might follow in the future, as well. Smokers have already been driven outside of any enclosed indoor public places, but now even the option for...

Anti-Smoking Campaign Fires Up in South Africa

Two new anti-smoking laws have been signed by President Jacob Zuma in South Africa. Anti-smoking campaigns are in full swing in this country, with hopes to increase fines, restrict marketing on tobacco and to ban smoking in cars. Peter Ucko, the Director of the National Council Against Smoking says the laws will have an effect on everyone, smokers and non-smokers alike, with the focus being on protecting non-smokers from the...

Travel Without Smoke

Travel companies are pushing for better air, or so they say. Smoking bans started on airlines in the 1980's and Northwest Airlines was one of the first to ban smoking on all flights. Recently hotel chains like Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, Westin, Sheraton and Comfort Suites have banned smoking on all premises. Rental car companies are joining the ranks — as of next month Avis, Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car will be...

Gruesome Images on Cigarette Packs

Most people would be put off by the image of a mouth ravaged by cancer and rotting teeth that is if they are not smokers. New federal regulations are soon to go into effect in the US, where cigarette packages will be covered front and back with disturbing images of the effects of smoking. These regulations are modeled after those already in place in Canada and other countries. The warning labels will have images of blackened...

Anti, Anti-Smoking

Retired NYPD cop, Audrey Silk, has decided to go anti, anti-smoking and has founded Citizens Lobby Against Smoker Harassment. Her main reason for starting this group is that she feels the Health Department is spending far too much money on telling New Yorkers to quit smoking. The final straw was when Silk found out that graphic signs, scaring smokers into quitting would be posted at every counter selling cigarettes. She...

Quitting While Homeless

Smoking is a habit that is difficult for anyone to kick, but it is hard to imagine where someone living on the streets would find the inspiration to quit. That said, Burrell Behavioural Health has started up a program to help the less fortunate quit smoking. It's already in place at a shelter called Bill's Place, where anyone can come in, take a shower, get a cup of coffee or just get in from the cold. Sue, a smoker...