NCJ Number
211393
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 32 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2005 Pages: 22,24,26,28
Date Published
September 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article notes the dangers of inhalant use, particularly by youth, and proposes a strategy for preventing it.
Abstract
Inhalants are the drug of choice for young and impressionable kids. A few commonly used inhalants are air fresheners, cooking oil sprays, butane, gasoline, nail polish remover, glue, spray deodorant, and whipped cream sprays. Death can occur instantly from inhaling such substances, as they have the effect of stopping the heart. If death does not occur, brain damage may result. The prevention of inhalant abuse should be planned by coalitions of police agencies, local schools, and parents. Some States have passed laws to reduce minors' access to inhalant products, increase awareness of inhalant abuse, and make punishments harsher. As of 2000, 38 States had adopted laws that prevent the sale, use, and/or distribution to minors of various products commonly abused as inhalants. Some States have introduced fines, incarceration, or mandatory treatment for the sale, distribution, use, and/or possession of inhalable chemicals. Parents must be instructed in the prevalence and dangers of inhalant abuse, as well as in ways to educate their children about inhalants, their characteristics, and their abuse.