Police warn parents of ‘laughing gas’ dangers
POLICE have warned parents that these canisters are a telltale sign children are abusing nitrous oxide.
Officers posted an image of dispensers on social media and highlighted the potentially lethal effects of the gas, which is also known as ‘laughing gas’ and ‘hippy crack’.
The photo appeared on GMP’s Failsworth and Hollinwood Facebook page on Thursday night with the message: “If you find any of these items in your child’s belongings or bedroom then they are probably abusing nitrous oxide.
“Dispensers or ‘cracker openers’ are used to abstract the gas from the canisters.
“The gas is then captured in balloons and inhaled.”
Officers listed several effects of nitrous oxide and its risks: ●●Feelings of relaxation, calmness and euphoria. ●●Difficulty in concentrating, dizziness and fits of giggles/ laughter. ●●Distorted sounds or even hallucinations. ●●A headache.
They said: “Nitrous oxide can cause dizziness or affect your judgement, which might make you act carelessly or dangerously and put you at risk of hurting yourself, particularly in an unsafe environment.
“Other risks include unconsciousness or death from lack of oxygen.
“This occurs when the available oxygen for breathing is effectively pushed out by the nitrous oxide.
“The risk is greater if the gas is consumed in an enclosed space or if a plastic bag is used that covers both nose and mouth.”
GMP’s post came after questions were raised over the law banning socalled legal highs after two prosecutions under the legislation collapsed.
National media reported how two separate cases against people accused of intending to supply nitrous oxide – at Taunton Crown Court and Southwark Crown Court earlier this month – were dismissed after the courts reportedly heard the drug is exempt under the Psychoactive Substances Act.