News

CALEDONIA, ON – From May 25th to June 1st, 2009, the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit’s youth group, Fresh Heir will be assembling a display in the chain link fences located on Haddington Street and Caithness Street. The purpose of this event will be to educate the community about the dangers of flavoured tobacco products, with the phrase “Fight the Flavour” that will be displayed on the fences.

“Flavoured tobacco comes in many forms, such as chew and spit, snus, and cigarillos and is often targeted towards youth,” says Peer Leader Megan Hartwick, a member of Fresh Heir. The tobacco industry markets flavoured tobacco products towards youth by using bright coloured packaging, which has a similar appearance to makeup and candy. These deceptive marketing tactics make a deadly product like tobacco more appealing to youth. “Many people may think that flavoured tobacco products are less addictive than other tobacco products such as cigarettes, when in fact they are just as addictive,” explains Peer Leader Kristen Rattray.

All members of the public are encouraged to visit www.cwyc.org for additional information on the campaign against flavoured tobacco. Fresh Heir is always looking for volunteers to help in their efforts to Clear Up Big Tobacco for this Generation and the Next. Those interested in getting involved, or those who need more information about the event, can contact the group at [email protected]

Media Contact:
Ashley Everets
Youth Advisor
Smoke-Free Ontario Program
Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit
519-426-6170 ext. 3276