Warning About The Dangers of Laughing Gas

Bosses at Sandwell Council are warning of the dangers of using nitrous oxide – also known as laughing gas. 

Councillors have been receiving an increasing number of reports of the empty canisters left behind by people using the substance. 

Councillor Elaine Costigan, cabinet member for public health and protection said: “I’ve received a number of reports from local residents about these gas canisters being left on the ground in my ward. 

“We want to warn parents and the local community to be on the look-out for these canisters so they can help tackle the misuse of nitrous oxide.” 

The legal high can cause serious health risks, both short term and longer term, and there have been deaths attributed to its use especially when mixed with alcohol. 

Councillor Simon Hackett, cabinet member for children’s services said: “I’ll be raising this issue with schools and urging them to make sure their students are fully aware of the dangers of using nitrous oxide. 

“We carry out regular sessions in Sandwell schools to highlight the dangers of drug use including giving information about legal highs such as laughing gas. 

“We will be launching our programme for the new school year in Sandwell schools and continue to warn young people about the dangers.” 

If anyone feels they have a problem with legal highs or other substances, or is concerned for someone else, they should seek help by calling either of the Sandwell’s alcohol and drug services. For the young people age 18 and under, call DECCA on 0121 569 2201.  For age 19 and call Iris on 0121 553 1333. For information on legal highs, alcohol, tobacco and a range of other drugs, visit www.talktofrank.com.