Nitrous Oxide - It’s no laughing matter

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide is also commonly known as Laughing Gas and Hippy Crack. It is a colourless, non-flammable gas (by itself) which is used by people as a form of intoxicant.

Is Nitrous Oxide dangerous?

Nitrous Oxide is a gas used in medicine, (along with oxygen), to anaesthetize. When inhaled recreationally, it causes a short euphoric high, where people may temporarily lose balance and hurt themselves, or endanger others. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting and long term use can lead to nerve damage. Where oxygen is excluded there are dangers of asphyxia, fainting, heart attack and even death.

What if someone collapses?

Call an ambulance immediately, turn them onto their side to avoid choking. Stay with them until the ambulance arrives. Remember, you won’t get into trouble with the authorities for having taken drugs – paramedics don’t call the police unless there has been a fatality. Find out more: www.talktofrank.com/drug/nitrous-oxide

Southwater Community Police Office is currently closed due to the Coronavirus pandemic. If you are concerned about something suspicious, please call 101 or report it online at www.sussex.police.uk . In an emergency, always dial 999.

To report anti-social driving or abandoned vehicles, go to www.operationcrackdown.org