CCNS ANNOUNCES ITS SIX POINT PROPOSAL PROGRAM
By Adnews Staff
The CCNS Canadian Council for Non-Smokers of Toronto has released its new six point anti-smoking program that involves advertising campaigns to targeted audiences, a 1-800 information number and new packaging with positive messaging. The first point is the introduction of seminars delivered by medical experts for smokers who want to stop. The seminars will be supported with a 1-800 number that will provide smokers with an information kit. The CCNS also plan to launch a radio advertising campaign on Chum-FM this fall, encouraging smokers to call for the information kit on quitting. The second point in the program is the development of a series of cigarette package labels which carry positive information about quitting. The third point in the program identifies the problem of air-rage. CCNS is working with Transport Canada and the airlines to develop a program to address nicotine withdrawal while flying. The fourth and fifth points involve an awareness program for children aged 8-12 years and a "Stop Starting" program for children 13-16 years. The awareness program will include a trust agreement where the child, parent and CCNS will assist the child never to start smoking. The "Stop Starting" program would instill the value that "smoking is not cool" through messages created by young people. These programs will be run semi-annually in spring and fall supported by an ongoing television and radio awareness campaign. Rupert Brendon, president of the Institute of Canadian Advertising in Toronto, has been working with the CCNS on its advertising plans. The final point in the CCNS' program is to reduce cigarette use in Canada. Working with a major bank, automobile manufacturer and smaller corporations, the CCNS wants to develop a national advertising campaign highlighting the amount of money that would be saved by a smoker when they quit. Advertisements would direct smokers to call the CCNS's 1-800 toll free line for information on how to quit. CCNS has applied to various levels of government for funding to launch these programs. According to Frank Dwyer president and CEO of CCNS, an agency review will be held to confirm who will handle advertising for the CCNS following funding approval.