As we enjoy the warmth of another glorious summer, it’s time to take stock of our choices and prioritise our health. The summer season brings with it an opportunity to embrace healthier habits and lifestyles, and what better way to celebrate than to commit to a tobacco-free summer?

Say yes to smoke-free destinations

This summer, let’s make a conscious decision to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the harmful effects of tobacco. Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, a family picnic, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, choose destinations that are 100 percent smoke-free. By doing so, you’re not just ensuring a healthier environment for yourself and your loved ones, but also contributing to a wider movement for a smoke-free South Africa.

Reject secondhand smoke and fruity vapes

The allure of vapes can be deceptive. Don’t let the sleek packaging and enticing flavours fool you—these products are not without risk and nicotine is highly addictive. Likewise, secondhand smoke poses a significant health hazard, even to non-smokers. This summer, let’s say no to secondhand smoke and fruity vapes, and yes to real summer flavours—fresh fruits, refreshing beverages, and healthy, delicious meals enjoyed in the company of friends and family.

Support the Tobacco Control Bill

The Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill, currently being discussed in national public consultations, represents a crucial step towards making South Africa tobacco-free. The new bill enforces an absolute prohibition on smoking or vaping in indoor, and certain outdoor public places. This includes previously partially-exempted areas, such as restaurants, bars, and workplaces, effectively creating a 100 percent smoke-free environment.

The bill addresses the marketing and advertising of tobacco and electronic delivery systems, proposing a complete advertising ban, including at point-of-sale. Retailers would not be allowed to display any of these products and can only make them available upon request from a person over the age of 18, and they will not be sold in vending machines. The bill also introduces new plain packaging and labelling rules. All tobacco products and electronic delivery systems should carry graphic health warnings.

The bill recognises the risks of electronic delivery systems, including e-cigarettes and vapes. It aims to regulate these products in the same vein as traditional tobacco products, debunking the misconception that these products are harmless.

By supporting this bill, we can help ensure a healthier future for all South Africans. It’s about more than just individual choices—it’s about creating a society where everyone can breathe easy, free from the harm caused by tobacco and related products.

Switch on summer with #SwitchoffTobacco

This summer, we invite you to join us in our #SwitchoffTobacco campaign. Let’s celebrate the season by embracing healthier choices, protecting our loved ones, and supporting efforts to make South Africa tobacco-free. After all, there’s no better time than now to turn a new leaf.

Remember, summer is all about freedom—the freedom to enjoy life, to make healthy choices, and to protect our health and the health of those we care about. So let’s switch on summer and #SwitchoffTobacco. Here’s to a tobacco-free summer and a healthier, happier South Africa!

For more information about the Tobacco Control Bill and our #SwitchOffTobacco campaign, visit our website at www.protectournext.co.za. Stay cool, stay healthy, and stay smoke-free this summer!

Need help to quit smoking?

If you or someone you know is trying to quit smoking, professional help is available. The National Council Against Smoking offers a Quitline where you can get advice and support. Reach out to the Quitline by calling 011 720 3145, or alternatively, get in touch through their WhatsApp line on 072 766 4812. Remember, it’s never too late to quit. Let’s make the most of this summer by making healthier choices and living tobacco-free.