Volatile Substances

QUIZ

TRUE or FALSE

TRUE – When everyday products are used in the way they are intended, they are safe. It is when they are misused, or used for the wrong purpose, that they become very dangerous and can even kill.

TRUE or FALSE

FALSE – Inhaling (or sniffing) kills more young people, under the age of 18, than all the illegal drugs put together.

TRUE or FALSE

TRUE – Many people die on their first or second experiment with solvents.

TRUE or FALSE

FALSE – Around 70% of people who die from sniffing (using solvents) are under 19 years old.

STATISTICS In 2006, the last year for which there are official figures, there were 49 deaths resulting from the deliberate inhalation of volatile substances. Girls were more likely than boys to have used solvents. In a 2007 survey involving almost 8,000 pupils, from secondary schools throughout England, they found that: 75% who took a volatile substance on the first occasion, reported feeling no different. 6% had sniffed in the last year. Pupils’ first drug use was most likely to be inhaling volatile substances (51%).

SO WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS?

Light-headedness, effects similar to alcohol intoxification (slurred speech/loss of balance/giggles and headaches). Some users experience hallucinations. It can give users a hangover afterwards, giving them bad headaches and making them sleepy.

Lack of concentration, nausea. Danger of suffocation from plastic bags, from throat inflammation (as a result of spraying lighter fuel/aerosol into the mouth), or from choking on vomit whilst unconscious. Spots and sores on the face.

Loss of motivation. Some products can make the heart more sensitive and can result in heart failure if the sniffer exerts themself.

= DEATH = It’s like Russian roulette you can die the first time or the tenth time

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