Download free signage

Stores that sell tobacco products should order new signage for 2005 if they have not yet done so. Most materials, including signage and training materials, are available—in both English and Spanish—at no charge for download in printable format from the WeCard.org website.

The website also offers a free web-based training program that uses quiz questions, videos and interactive graphics to teach retail staff the basics of selling age-restricted products, as well as how to handle special situations. Summaries of Michigan law and those of other states are available as well.

Retailers can order materials from the website or by phone (800.0934.3968). The Coalition for Responsible Tobacco Retailing, a non-profit organization, now charges retailers a nominal fee to cover the cost of processing the order, producing the items and shipping.

The new year is the logical time to replace faded decals and order current calendars, signs and other tools, including age-of-purchase stickers, reminder pins and counter signs for clerks, and age-checker devices.

Retailers may also want to consider stepping up their training efforts by obtaining the latest “We Card” training materials, from breakroom posters to CD-ROM training programs and videos, or by reviewing the website’s schedule for other training opportunities.

Note that the “We Card” signs do not meet state sign requirements and cannot be used as a substitute for the state-mandated signs that retailers obtain from the state when they are licensed.