HELENA - Smoke-free for a day. That's the objective of the Great American Smokeout that took place Thursday.
In little less than one year, many of Montana's bars, restaurants and casinos will be smoke-free.
Linda Lee, with the state Tobacco Use Prevention Program, says this is the day to quit in preparation for a smoke-free Montana.
"Quit for a day. To at least get that beginning for themselves. To have it behind them, that they know that they quit for one day. And, who knows, maybe that'll be the beginning of a more extended cessation attempt," Lee said.
But it's not just about those smoking or using chew tobacco. It's about getting friends and family involved. "People are much more successful if they have support. For instance, if you just try to quit on your own, cold turkey, as they say, you have a 2.5% chance of succeeding."
But with a support system, nicotine replacement therapy and counseling through the Montana Quit Line, research shows a success rate of up to 30%.
However, as smoking bans blanket the state, officials now worry about the rise in use of chew tobacco.
"Spit tobacco causes cancer. And is not a safe alternative to smoking and we certainly hope that no one will make that transition." The Montana Quit Line is preparing for higher call volume in the coming year as more smokers try to put down cigarettes as the clean indoor air act is put into effect.
If you're looking to put out your smoking habit, the Montana Quit Line offers free counseling and nicotine replacement. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.