Keeping Youth Safe This Holiday Break: Talk Early, Talk Often About Vaping

As students head into the holiday break, families gain more time together—an ideal moment for open conversations about health and safety. This season, the Paso del Norte Health Foundation’s Smoke-Free/Vape-Free Initiative is launching a strengthened awareness campaign to help parents understand the dangers of youth vaping, including the rise of THC-based vape devices.

E-cigarettes remain the most commonly used nicotine product among youth. However, many parents do not realize that in Texas, possession of a vape containing THC is a felony, even for minors. With more free time during the break, youth may face increased exposure to misinformation and pressure to engage in risky behaviors.

To support families, the Health Foundation is rolling out a regional media campaign throughout December and January. Television messages and billboards across the region will highlight the legal and long-term consequences of THC vaping and encourage parents to talk with their children about safety and the law.

Parents can make a big difference by starting simple conversations. Ask your child what they know about vaping, explain the risks clearly, and reassure them that they can come to you with any questions or concerns. These discussions can help inform healthy decisions.

The Smoke-Free Paso del Norte Initiative continues working year-round to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, support tobacco users who want to quit, prevent youth tobacco use, and address tobacco-related disparities in the region. The initiative also regularly monitors youth use and illegal sales of tobacco products to minors to help keep communities informed and protected.

Visit smokefreepdn.org for more information.

Click Here to view the vaping video campaign (English). Haga Clic Aquí para ver el vídeo de la campaña de vapeo (en español).