1. How do I start a SWAT club at my school?

First begin by asking your principal to begin the club at your school. Next, you and your principal need to find a teacher that is willing to sponsor the club. Agree on a set date when you'll meet for meetings, spread the word, recruit members and you'll be all set!

2. How big will SWAT become?

SWAT will become as large and as effective as you, the SWAT member make it. At last count in March of 2003, over 74,000 members were registered statewide. SWAT grew from 0 to over 12,000 in the first year. Anything is possible, it just takes commitment, work and most importantly, dedication.

3. What would I gain from SWAT?

First, it would help you to better yourself, your friends, your brothers, sisters and family because you would be given the chance to teach these other people about the lies and manipulation of Big Tobacco. Tobacco companies deceive youth all across America.

4. Can I get community service hours for participating in SWAT?

Yes you can. As you know, there are colleges that require a certain amount of community service hours, and you can use those hours for many things.

5.  Can I be in a SWAT commercial?

There is always that possibility. Auditions are held at the annual Teen Tobacco Summit. There are auditions, a cast is selected, and the commercial is filmed.

6. Has SWAT been successful in the past?

Yes. In 1999, the Florida Youth Tobacco Survey (FYTS) showed that current cigarette use among high school students dropped 9% and for middle school students it dropped 19%. In 2000, we had a 40% decrease in middle school, and 18% decrease in high school! In 2001, there was a 47% decrease in middle school and a 30% decrease among high school students. For the year 2002, the current cigarette usage dropped 50% in middle school and 35% in high schools.

7. How does SWAT plan to recruit teens?

Because SWAT is run by youth, the teens determine what activities and events will attract other teens. SWAT youth use new and innovative ideas to attract young people to events, and then use the message to attract them to the cause.

8. Who would someone call if they wanted information on joining SWAT or just wanted some general information about SWAT?

Well, first they could call their county's health department and ask for the tobacco prevention coordinator. Or, they could call the hotline at 1-877-GEN-SWAT to speak with a SWAT member in Tallahassee. The other way in which  to contact SWAT headquarters is through their email address SWAT@doh.state.fl.us. When calling the hotline, all they have to do is ask for information and the attendant will answer any questions about SWAT or send out information on the program.

9. Does SWAT have a website?

You're on one right now! Although this SWAT website belongs to Wakulla County, there are many other SWAT sites. Click here to see more SWAT sites.

10. After the budget was reduced, is there still enough money to run a successful campaign?

Yes. Nothing could be further from the 'truth' when saying that less money will be the demise of SWAT. SWAT is alive and the numbers are increasing regardless of funds. Its up to the SWAT members to raise awareness and conduct advocacy projects, and that can be done for free.

11.  A friend just recently told me that he/she smokes and would like to quit. How can I help?

If they can access the Internet, encourage your friend to visit these websites for help:

They can also call this number:

Florida Quit for life line 1-877-U-CAN-NOW

(For Florida residents 13 and older)