Taking part in the Great American Smokeout is a good starting point for smokers who want to quit.  The following “5-D” techniques can help with quitting: Deep Breathing - Take a few deep breaths by inhaling and exhaling slowly to help the body relax and relieve stress. Drink Water - Drink eight glasses of water every day to help rid the body of harmful cigarette toxins. Do Something Else - Distract yourself by taking a walk, reading a book or chewing on sugarless gum, cinnamon sticks or a straw. Delay - Wait!  The urge to smoke will pass within 5-10 minutes and will become weaker over time. Discuss - Talk to a friend to get support and encouragement.

A number of resources are available to assist people who want to quit tobacco. Tobacco Reduction of Amador County (TRAC) offers free adult and youth tobacco cessation classes, self-help materials and individual counseling. 223-6638. The California Smokers’ Helpline, 1-800-NO-BUTTS, offers free, over-the-phone counseling. The Great American Smokeout Web site (www.cancer.org/greatamericans) features a Quit Clock and a Craving Stopper --  these are tools that can be downloaded to a computer desktop to help smokers pick a quit day, prepare for quitting, and offer support during and after quitting.