No smoking social media contest aims to engage Chicago youth

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The city of Chicago is hoping to get young people engaged in the fight against Big Tobacco.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel recorded a message for Chicago youth on DontGetBurnedChicago.com, encouraging them to help work toward healthier city.

"You are the most important force in this city to further decrease smoking rates, so we can actually have a generation that is tobacco-free," Emanuel said. "You have the strongest voice to educate your friends about the dangers of smoking."

The Chicago Department of Public Health is hosting a social media contest. Participants, ages 9-24, are asked to create and upload a unique Instagram, Vine or 30-second video educating their peers about the dangers of smoking.

Submissions will be accepted through Oct. 30.