Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) a Growing Issue
Signs that the continued use of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) in our community is highlighted through a trend of larger canisters discarded in Celbridge and across Kildare.
The initial signs of wasted small silver bullet like canisters known as whippets, are now dwarfed by the current larger canisters, which is a real indication of a shift in the misuse of these products allbeit by a small number of users.
Concern of possible harm
Some recent reports from England of cases with prolonged use resulting in spinal cord nerve damage, highlights the importance of increasing awareness for people who are using these products while also making parents aware of this trend and the possible harms
The HSE advice to parents when talking to young people around substance use, is to begin by highlighting your concerns about substance use in general or that you read this post, heard something on raido/TV, and ask them what substances they are aware of in the community. It is stressed that active listening is key for a balanced approach and for more tips see the HSE booklet ‘Alcohol and Drugs: A Parents Guide. 
Safer Celbridge are calling on retailers to be extra vigilant in relation to selling these products, and for anyone that may be concerned please call:
