Each year, students from SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) and SWWATAV (Student Waging War Against Tobacco and Vaping) visit the elementary schools, with Club Advisor, Karen Uhl-Smith. Together they engage in student-to-student peer discussions on the benefits of a drug-free life. Topics included the dangers of vaping, drinking, smoking, and prescription drugs, as well as the importance and understanding of good decision-making skills and refusal skills. Club members (who range from grades 7-12), prepare presentations, demonstrations, and Q&A sessions for grades 5 and 6 at both West Side and Lloyd Harbor school. Looking up to and learning from older peers, who only a short time ago roamed the halls of these elementary schools, was quite powerful for these elementary students. These club members make such a difference in the lives of the younger students to ease their minds about any myths they may have heard and for bringing their knowledge and skill sets to our younger students.

Did You Know:

• Cigarettes contain: Cadmium batteries, barbecue lighter, industrial Solvent, Insecticide, Ammonia, Tethane, Arsenic, Carbon Monoxide, Butane and Methanol.

• Vaping: the nicotine in ONE e-cigarettes is equal to 20 cigarettes (Flavored vapes make it easier to start vaping and hide the harsh taste of tobacco but remember, the side effects of nicotine addiction are just as harsh.)

• While CBD (cannabidiol) is generally considered safe, vaping it can expose users to harmful substances, including: Heavy metals: Lead, cadmium, and nickel can be present in CBD vape products. Chemicals: Diacetyl, propylene glycol, and vegetable glycerin are common vaping chemicals that can irritate the lungs and increase the risk of respiratory disease. Ultrafine particles: These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause inflammation.

• Zyn pouches have gained in popularity – they are tobacco-free but contain nicotine salts, marketed as a way to get a nicotine buzz delivering nicotine, a stimulant that can lead to addiction and potentially harm brain development.