The Top Ten Reasons for Tobacco-Free Schools

1. Tobacco use is the leading cause of death in North Carolina
2. Tobacco use contributes to more deaths than alcohol, illegal drugs and firearms -- combined.
3. The nicotine in tobacco is addictive.
4. Smoking materials and secondhand smoke are dangerous.
5. Middle and high school years are critical in determining whether someone becomes a smoker for life. 90 percent of smokers began smoking before age 18.
6. Tobacco is considered a gateway drug, which means teens who stay tobacco-free are less likely to experiment with other drugs.
7. Allowing tobacco use at school is a conflict with prevention messages heard in classrooms.
8. Students need positive role models in schools.
9. Laws limit teen access to tobacco.
10. It's the right thing to do.