The Great American Smokeout offers tobacco users an opportunity to "quit for keeps" starting Nov. 15.

"The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control urges South Carolinians who smoke to take advantage of the services our agency offers to help them stop tobacco use on this day set aside for quitting by the American Cancer Society," said Katy Wynne, tobacco cessation consultant in DHEC's Division of Tobacco Prevention and Control.

"The S.C. Tobacco Quitline is a free phone-based counseling service available to all state residents," Wynne said. "Callers are assigned a personal Quit Coach, who offers support and helps them formulate a plan to make their quit attempt successful."

The Quitline is available from 8 a.m. to midnight seven days a week by calling 1-800- QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).

Wynne also recommends the following tips for quitting tobacco use:

Set a quit date. Circle the day on your calendar, and create a plan that includes personal goals and rewards for reaching those milestones.

Throw out all the cigarette packs or tobacco products in your house and vehicle.

Talk to your doctor. Given your medical history and the number of years you've smoked, he or she will be able to recommend a cessation medication.

Look for patterns. If you find that you always crave a cigarette during your midmorning coffee break, try changing your pattern.

Tell friends and family you're quitting. They can often be your biggest cheerleaders. Ask them to drop an occasional e-mail, postcard or phone call to keep you motivated.