1.      Set a quit date and stick to it - this can greatly improve your chances of success! The sooner the better. Once you decide to quit and set your quit date...

• ­Write down your reasons for quitting and look at them often for support.
• ­Remove tobacco products, lighters and ashtrays from your home, car and any other place where you spend a lot of time.
• ­If you've tried to quit in the past, remember any strategies that were helpful and reuse them. Don't get frustrated and give up. It typically takes a smoker four or five tries before they are able to quit smoking for good.

2.      Consider using nicotine replacement products (such as the patch or gum) and other medications (such as Zyban or Chantix).

• These medications can help ease your cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
• They double your chances of success!
• Try to wait to use nicotine replacement therapy products until you absolutely need them.
• Call 311 to be referred to free or low-cost counseling services and medications.

3.      Try avoiding smoking triggers.

• If there are certain people, places or things that you associate with smoking, try to stay away from them for a while if it's possible.

4.      Be prepared that quitting will probably not be easy.

• You will most likely experience withdrawal symptoms. They are usually the worst within 1-3 weeks after quitting. These symptoms can be reduced by using nicotine replacement therapies (such as the patch or gum).
• When your craving for a cigarette becomes strong, wait 10 minutes before smoking. The urge usually passes.
• Use physical activity as a good way to help relieve stress, fight cravings, reduce withdrawal symptoms, elevate mood, and control effects of weight gain.

5.      Get support from friends, family and co-workers.

• Be sure and tell all of your family and friends that you are quitting and ask for their support; especially from those who smoke.
• If a person close to you smokes, encourage them to quit with you! If they are not ready to quit, ask them not to smoke in front of you.
• You can even get support from other smokers like you who are trying to quit through online support groups. Quitnet.com is one website that provides tools and support to help you quit smoking for good.