The American Cancer Society is urging smokers to put out their cigarette butts Thursday for the Great American Smokeout.

The organization holds the nationwide event every year on the third Thursday of November. The Smokeout aims to reduce the habit and raise awareness. The ACS says quitting greatly reduces health risks, especially cancer.

The ACS says the first step to kicking the habit is to make the decision. Next, the group encourages smokers to set a day to quit and also be prepared for withdrawal symptoms.

Smokers agree it's a hard process. "It has to come from you," says Tim Robinson. "It's like drinking. If you don't want to quit drinking, you can't stop. It's the same with smoking."

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