DVD Teaches Kids to Avoid Tobacco

"Smoking makes me ugly"...That is the title of a new tobacco prevention program. Tonight we get a sneak peak at the DVD that is being introduced to South Dakota fifth-grade students.

"So you want to talk about smoking."

The South Dakota State Medical Association Alliance is working with law enforcement to STOP tobacco use through this 12 minute video hosted by a talking cigarette.

Told you, I'm irresistible."

"Cigfree" takes the students through the human body, showing the harmful effects of smoking.

"All the kids know smoking gives you cancer and its bad for you, but this actually gives them a visual picture of what it does to each part of your body," said Christine Bruxvoort, School Resource Officer.

Officials say their goal is to decrease the number of children who become smokers.

"I think its a great part of the program to let kids see that long term effects may not be when your 15 and 16, but you get to your 20s, 30s, 40s, that's when the effects come out," said Grace Wellman, Co-Pres., SDSMA.

And officers say the DVD is another great resource for their tool bag.

"I think this is the most up to date video I've seen since doing this job and I think it will really keep them interested," said Josh Phillips, Deputy Sheriff.

The Alliance has placed 75 DVDs in schools throughout South Dakota.