MacDill HAWC promotes Great American Smokeout

  • Published
  • By Airman Adam R. Shanks
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
Team MacDill recognized the Great American Smokeout, a day which encourages tobacco users to kick the habit, Nov. 17, 2016 at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

The Great American Smokeout, an event started by the American Cancer Society, occurs on the third Thursday of November each year.

The MacDill Health and Wellness Center (HAWC) geared efforts towards squadrons with the most tobacco users.

“Security Forces Air Force-wide are frequent users of tobacco products,” said Joan Craft, the HAWC director. “We’re not trying to point fingers and force others to quit, but rather educate and showcase the resources for when they do decide to quit.”

Throughout the day, the HAWC talked to SFS members before the start of each shift.

“I didn’t even know about the Great American Smokeout until the HAWC came and briefed us,” said Staff Sgt. Jesse Drennon, an installation patrolman assigned to the 6th SFS. “However, today, I plan on cutting down how much I dip [smokeless tobacco.]”

The HAWC offers tobacco cessation classes year-round, but this day introduces a way to educate tobacco users of the various resources available to quit.

“The HAWC has nicotine patches, gum and lozenges to help ween users off of tobacco products,” said Craft. “We offer prescription medications as well.”

Information about cessation resources were provided to the Short Fitness Center and the 6th Medical Group to further increase awareness at MacDill.

For more information about quitting, contact the HAWC at 813-828-4739.