Councillor warns of laughing gas dangers after ‘toxic' den discovered in Co Down town
DUP councillor Alan Lewis concerned about laughing gas use in Ballynahinch
A Co Down councillor has expressed concerns about a life-threatening culture of laughing gas use following the discovery of a 'toxic' den in Ballynahinch.
Under current legislation, the knowing or reckless supply of nitrous oxide (NOS) for inhalation is banned and dealers face up to seven years behind bars.
However, the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) has found that it can readily be bought online for around £25 a bottle.
Discarded nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, canisters. Pic: PA
Slieve Croob representative Alan Lewis said he has personally removed 'multiple cylinders' from the Grove Road after residents complained that they 'can be regularly found at this location'.
'These gas bottles were found with pump nozzles attached and used balloons scattered alongside,' he said.
'There are dozens of these bottles being found on a weekly basis at this location.
'At the moment, we are working on how to dispose of these gas bottles safely. These gas bottles are a real and present danger for younger children who will not know what they are.
'Some of these bottles were thrown away without any thought for others' safety, some even still had balloons attached, which an innocent child could easily pick up and be exposed to the dangers. Inhaling nitrous oxide is dangerous. It's being talked about as a quick high."
The potentially deadly gas is typically released into balloons from small silver canisters and then inhaled.
Prolonged use can cause vitamin B12 deficiency, anaemia and nerve damage.
Doctors previously warned that using the substance can lead to spinal injuries and, in some cases, even death.
The DUP councillor warned that, despite the nickname, laughing gas isn't funny.
'This gas starves the brain of oxygen, leading to dizziness, unconsciousness, and in some cases, death,' Mr Lewis said.
'There is a toxic warning label on these for a reason, it's dangerous.
'Some brands are stronger than regular NOS and may contain unknown additives. You never know what you're inhaling. Life is worth more than a 60-second high. Stay smart. Stay safe. Don't be stupid.'
The PSNI said nitrous oxide is a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and warned that 'making possession and sale for recreational purposes a criminal offence'.
The Northern Ireland Public Health Agency website states that New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) have received a high media profile over the past few years, 'in part because of the difficulties in restricting access to these drugs using the law and also because of deaths in Northern Ireland relating to NPS.'
DUP councillor Alan Lewis concerned about laughing gas use in Ballynahinch
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