Niles Police and Fire Department responded to two separate emergency calls both involving suspected inhalant abuse.
First responders found the first woman on the ground unconscious next to a can of dust cleaner. The woman was taken to the hospital for treatment.
The second call involved a 43-year-old woman who was acting suspiciously in the parking lot of a retail store. Police reported that the woman was huffing/inhaling the contents from an unidentified can. They later found her passed out behind a dumpster, where she was then taken to the hospital.
Via niles.patch.com in Niles, IL
Blog Report
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Woman Behind Bars After Stealing & Huffing Dust Remover
A maintenance crew at a local walmart found a 38-year-old woman lying on the floor of a handicapped stall.
When police arrived they found the woman on the ground, muttering, with three cans of dust remover in her reach.
The deputy heard a hissing sound followed by a can hitting the floor. The woman then got up and tried to exit unsteadily.
She walked to the next stall and vomited. She already had vomit on her chest. When asked for identification she opened her purse to reveal three cans of dust remover.
The woman was also arrested for huffing charges in January and March, and was found guilty in both cases.
Via naplenews.com in Naples, FL
When police arrived they found the woman on the ground, muttering, with three cans of dust remover in her reach.
The deputy heard a hissing sound followed by a can hitting the floor. The woman then got up and tried to exit unsteadily.
She walked to the next stall and vomited. She already had vomit on her chest. When asked for identification she opened her purse to reveal three cans of dust remover.
The woman was also arrested for huffing charges in January and March, and was found guilty in both cases.
Via naplenews.com in Naples, FL
Surge in Teens Huffing Refrigerant Has Georgia Poison Control on High Alert
A surge in teens huffing has prompted Poison Control to add freon to the list of abused inhalants.
Freon is a refrigerant used in air conditioners.
The number of cases of teens pumping the refrigerant out of air conditioners to get high is on the rise.
Officials say it can be deadly after one dose.
According to the Director of the Georgia Poison Control, there has been an increase in inhalant abuse cases from five in 2009 and 2010 to six through May of this year.
The Poison Center stated that there had been no reported deaths in Georgia from huffing refrigerant just yet.
Via wsbtv.com Atlanta, GA
Freon is a refrigerant used in air conditioners.
The number of cases of teens pumping the refrigerant out of air conditioners to get high is on the rise.
Officials say it can be deadly after one dose.
According to the Director of the Georgia Poison Control, there has been an increase in inhalant abuse cases from five in 2009 and 2010 to six through May of this year.
The Poison Center stated that there had been no reported deaths in Georgia from huffing refrigerant just yet.
Via wsbtv.com Atlanta, GA
Inhalant Abuse on the Rise Amongst Teens
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the peak age for inhalant abusers are 14 and 15 years old.
The abuse of common household cleaners are on the rise amongst teens. In the past years teens have been huffing dust remover used to clean crevices in electronic equipment.
Various fatal and deadly chemicals make up the contents of these aerosol cleaners.
Huffing inhalants has shown to cause hearing loss, limb spasms and brain damage.
Via wtop.com in Washington D.C.
The abuse of common household cleaners are on the rise amongst teens. In the past years teens have been huffing dust remover used to clean crevices in electronic equipment.
Various fatal and deadly chemicals make up the contents of these aerosol cleaners.
Huffing inhalants has shown to cause hearing loss, limb spasms and brain damage.
Via wtop.com in Washington D.C.
Q&A With Board Certified Family Medicine Physician: Dr. Caudle
Dr. Jennifer Caudle is a physician Board certified in Family Medicine who promotes , wellness and motivational programs. She has appeared on ABC News, written healthy advice articles and led workshops nationally. Her message of wellness has reached over 50,000 people and she can be found at http://www.jennifercaudle.com/.
Q: How should parents promote dialogue with their children about inhalant abuse?
A: One of the best things to do is to ask about their behavior, friends behavior and things they’ve seen
Q: What would you like children to know about the danger and severity of inhalant abuse?
A: A lot of people don’t know how common it is. You can have effects after the first try such as nausea, headaches; and more serious issues such as kidney, heart, lung problems and even sudden death.
Q: What are some treatments inhalant abusers must undergo to end their addiction?
A: There are treatment centers for abusers to get help. The most important thing is to get them help.
Q: Why do you feel inhalants are so popular?
A: Inhalants are popular because they are so easy to find. Many substances can be found around the house and at hardware stores.
Q: What is something that is usually overlooked when it comes to inhalant abuse?
A: A lot of adults abuse inhalants as well. Well over 54% of people who go to treatment are adults. Inhalant abuse can happen at all ages.
Q: What is your main message to the public?
A: People tend to overlook inhalant abuse as substance abuse when in reality it is. The signs are not always clear you may or may not notice them. Knowledge is power. We need to educate children, adults and health care providers more on this issue. No one should use inhalants. Parents, talk to your kids about the dangers. Also, physicians are always a great resource for any questions or advice.
Q: How should parents promote dialogue with their children about inhalant abuse?
A: One of the best things to do is to ask about their behavior, friends behavior and things they’ve seen
Q: What would you like children to know about the danger and severity of inhalant abuse?
A: A lot of people don’t know how common it is. You can have effects after the first try such as nausea, headaches; and more serious issues such as kidney, heart, lung problems and even sudden death.
Q: What are some treatments inhalant abusers must undergo to end their addiction?
A: There are treatment centers for abusers to get help. The most important thing is to get them help.
Q: Why do you feel inhalants are so popular?
A: Inhalants are popular because they are so easy to find. Many substances can be found around the house and at hardware stores.
Q: What is something that is usually overlooked when it comes to inhalant abuse?
A: A lot of adults abuse inhalants as well. Well over 54% of people who go to treatment are adults. Inhalant abuse can happen at all ages.
Q: What is your main message to the public?
A: People tend to overlook inhalant abuse as substance abuse when in reality it is. The signs are not always clear you may or may not notice them. Knowledge is power. We need to educate children, adults and health care providers more on this issue. No one should use inhalants. Parents, talk to your kids about the dangers. Also, physicians are always a great resource for any questions or advice.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Man Huff Inside of a local Wal-Mart
Officers responded to a local Wal-Mart where a 37-year-old-man had been huffing dust cleaner inside the store.
The man inhaled portions from five cans and was riding an electronic cart around the store.
The 37-year-old-man was arrested and cited for possession of a toxic substance.
Via bozemandailychronicle.com in Southwest Montana
The man inhaled portions from five cans and was riding an electronic cart around the store.
The 37-year-old-man was arrested and cited for possession of a toxic substance.
Via bozemandailychronicle.com in Southwest Montana
Evidence Found on Man's Face After Arrest for Huffing
According to police the evidence was all over his face after a 46-year-old man was arrested for public intoxication and inhaling toxic vapors.
Officers found the man crouched in between two vehicles between a grocery store and a restaurant. The man immediately dropped the bag revealing his nose and face covered in gold spray paint.
Gold covered the inside of the bag and a can of gold spray paint was found at the man's feet.
According to officers the man had trouble answering their questions.
The man was taken to jail on $2,000 surety and $500 cash bond on hold for violating his probation.
Via heraldtimesonline.com in Bloomington, IN
Officers found the man crouched in between two vehicles between a grocery store and a restaurant. The man immediately dropped the bag revealing his nose and face covered in gold spray paint.
Gold covered the inside of the bag and a can of gold spray paint was found at the man's feet.
According to officers the man had trouble answering their questions.
The man was taken to jail on $2,000 surety and $500 cash bond on hold for violating his probation.
Via heraldtimesonline.com in Bloomington, IN
Man Heads to Penetentiary After Huffing and Driving
A 22-year-old man is heading to the penetentiary after huffing computer cleaner while operating a motor vehicle.
The man was sentenced to 18 months and pay court costs of $104.
He was arrested in September after passing out and crashing into a parked car as a result of huffing dust remover. The 22-year-old was charged with third-offense driving under the influence, driving with a revoked driver's license, ingesting an intoxicant other than an alcoholic beverage and possession of drug paraphernalia
The man has had about 20 arrests since 2007 all related to drugs and alcohol.
Via twincities.com in Mitchell, SD
The man was sentenced to 18 months and pay court costs of $104.
He was arrested in September after passing out and crashing into a parked car as a result of huffing dust remover. The 22-year-old was charged with third-offense driving under the influence, driving with a revoked driver's license, ingesting an intoxicant other than an alcoholic beverage and possession of drug paraphernalia
The man has had about 20 arrests since 2007 all related to drugs and alcohol.
Via twincities.com in Mitchell, SD
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Huffing on the Rise Amongst Teens in Arkansas City
Via kansascw.com in Arkansas City, Kansas
After two recent reports of teens huffing dust remover Arkansas City Police have sent out a warning to all parents and teens about the danger of inhalants.
An Arkansas City teen was found at a skatepark with two empty bottles of CleanSafe dust remover. The teen was arrested for huffing after admitting to using one can.
The boy was checked by Arkansas City EMS and released to his father.
A few days earlier a trash can was found containing 12 empty CleanSafe cans after a resident reported his findings to the authorities.
Officers are asking parents to become more vigilant about the signs of illegal behavior in Arkansas City youth.
After two recent reports of teens huffing dust remover Arkansas City Police have sent out a warning to all parents and teens about the danger of inhalants.
An Arkansas City teen was found at a skatepark with two empty bottles of CleanSafe dust remover. The teen was arrested for huffing after admitting to using one can.
The boy was checked by Arkansas City EMS and released to his father.
A few days earlier a trash can was found containing 12 empty CleanSafe cans after a resident reported his findings to the authorities.
Officers are asking parents to become more vigilant about the signs of illegal behavior in Arkansas City youth.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Driver Sentenced to Six Months in Jail After Deadly Huffing Crash
Via njherald.com in Newton, New Jersey
A 22-year-old woman accused of contributing to the death of her teenage passenger, was sentenced to six months in prison and three years probation.
The woman huffed inhalants while traveling with the 16-year-old. Both failed to wear seat belts. Her car veered and struck a guardrail during a late night rainstorm.
Police who responded to the scene found cans in the back seat of the woman's car.
After the accident the woman tested positive for difluoroethane, a chemical found in dust remover.
The victims family and their prosecutor are scheduling a time to meet with state legislatures for a zero tolerance rule against driving under the influnce of inhalants.
A 22-year-old woman accused of contributing to the death of her teenage passenger, was sentenced to six months in prison and three years probation.
The woman huffed inhalants while traveling with the 16-year-old. Both failed to wear seat belts. Her car veered and struck a guardrail during a late night rainstorm.
Police who responded to the scene found cans in the back seat of the woman's car.
After the accident the woman tested positive for difluoroethane, a chemical found in dust remover.
The victims family and their prosecutor are scheduling a time to meet with state legislatures for a zero tolerance rule against driving under the influnce of inhalants.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Man Huffs in Front of Police Officer
Via host.madison.com in Madison, WI
A police officer arrested a man after witnessing him huffing in his vehicle.
The police were called after the forty-nine-year-old man crashed his pickup into a parked BMW. When the officer walked up to the driver side window, he saw the man holding the can to his face and then several short bursts from the container. The man continued to huff from the can even after the officer identified himself.
The man told police he was huffing because it helped with his heroin withdrawls.
The man is charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the unfluence, second offence, and hit and run to an unattended vehicle.
A police officer arrested a man after witnessing him huffing in his vehicle.
The police were called after the forty-nine-year-old man crashed his pickup into a parked BMW. When the officer walked up to the driver side window, he saw the man holding the can to his face and then several short bursts from the container. The man continued to huff from the can even after the officer identified himself.
The man told police he was huffing because it helped with his heroin withdrawls.
The man is charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the unfluence, second offence, and hit and run to an unattended vehicle.
Good News from the Cayman Islands
Via compasscayman.com in the Cayman Islands
According to the latest Cayman Islands Drug Use Survey of children grades seven through 12 reports that the number of children who don't abuse any substances is up 54.1 percent from 47.1 percent in 2006.
Inhalant use has decreased from 3.1 percent in 2006 to 1 percent in 2010.
According to the latest Cayman Islands Drug Use Survey of children grades seven through 12 reports that the number of children who don't abuse any substances is up 54.1 percent from 47.1 percent in 2006.
Inhalant use has decreased from 3.1 percent in 2006 to 1 percent in 2010.
Girl Suspected to Have Died from Huffing Whip-Its at Rave Days Before Graduation
Via myfoxphoneix.com Phoenix, AZ
An 18-year-old girl died at a rave party just days before graduation.
The 18-year-old was a standout student known for her involvement and academic achievement in her school.
Saturday, the girl left with friends for a rave where she collapsed and was still breathing when paramedics arrived. She later died at the hospital for what police suspect, of a death by inhaling nitrous oxide.
The girl's sister accepted her diploma in her place at the graduation ceremony.
An 18-year-old girl died at a rave party just days before graduation.
The 18-year-old was a standout student known for her involvement and academic achievement in her school.
Saturday, the girl left with friends for a rave where she collapsed and was still breathing when paramedics arrived. She later died at the hospital for what police suspect, of a death by inhaling nitrous oxide.
The girl's sister accepted her diploma in her place at the graduation ceremony.
Increasing Coverage on ACE's Strike Out Inhalant Abuse with the Minnesota Twins
Via twinkietown.com a Minnesota Twins Fan Site
Thank you to Twinkie Town, a Minnesota Twins Fan site, for continuing coverage over the web of ACE's "Strike Out Inhalant Abuse in Minnesota."
Twinkie Town higlighted the day with some photos of the Students Against Destructive Decisions and the Minnesota Teen Challenge and the PSA video below for the event.
Thank you to Twinkie Town, a Minnesota Twins Fan site, for continuing coverage over the web of ACE's "Strike Out Inhalant Abuse in Minnesota."
Twinkie Town higlighted the day with some photos of the Students Against Destructive Decisions and the Minnesota Teen Challenge and the PSA video below for the event.
Teen in Tulsa Dies From a Laughing Gas Overdose
Via fox23.com Tulsa, OK
A 19-year-old male custodian is suspected to have over dosed on laughing gas after workers found him dead in a room at St. Francis Medical Building.
In the last year there have been a handful of deaths in Tulsa connected to huffing.
At least two people have died from huffing refrigerant from air conditioning units.
Just a day before the death of the 19-year-old male, police encountered another huffing incident with a group of burglars in a pursuit who were suspected of huffing gold spray paint.
Three obvious signs to that someone you know may be addicted to inhalants are:
Frostbite on fingers (refrigerant users)
Coloring around the mouth (spray paint users)
Empty bags with paint residue and or bottles and cans littered in a room/car
A 19-year-old male custodian is suspected to have over dosed on laughing gas after workers found him dead in a room at St. Francis Medical Building.
In the last year there have been a handful of deaths in Tulsa connected to huffing.
At least two people have died from huffing refrigerant from air conditioning units.
Just a day before the death of the 19-year-old male, police encountered another huffing incident with a group of burglars in a pursuit who were suspected of huffing gold spray paint.
Three obvious signs to that someone you know may be addicted to inhalants are:
Alliance for Consumer Education Receives an Honorable Mention at the PR News Award
Via prnewsonline.com Washington D.C.
On May 18, 2011 PR News congratulated all Non-Profit PR award winners and honorable mentions in a luncheon held at the National Press Club in Washington D.C.
The Alliance for Consumer Education received an honorable mention in the Media Relations category for their "Super Heroes Team Up To Fight Germs" campaign, against stiff competition. The overall winner in the category was Dentsu Communications.
Congratulations to the Alliance for Consumer Education for such a great achievment!
On May 18, 2011 PR News congratulated all Non-Profit PR award winners and honorable mentions in a luncheon held at the National Press Club in Washington D.C.
The Alliance for Consumer Education received an honorable mention in the Media Relations category for their "Super Heroes Team Up To Fight Germs" campaign, against stiff competition. The overall winner in the category was Dentsu Communications.
Congratulations to the Alliance for Consumer Education for such a great achievment!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Teen Driver Crashes Into Guard Rail After Huffing
Via observer-reporter.com in Washington, PA
An 18-year-old man crashed his car into a guardrail after huffing a spray can of electronic equipment cleaner that he purchased just 10 minutes before.
Police were called for a report of an unconscious driver who had slammed into a guardrail. As police were en route they were notified that three passengers inside the car had ran from the car.
When police arrived they found the 18-year-old, high school senior, sitting on the sidewalk. The man told police he had blacked out and refused any medical treatment.
According to police the man blacked out, crossed a median and hit the guardrail on the opposite side of the road.
The passengers, ranging in ages from 14-16, were waiting at a nearby restaurant for police to arrive. The man had reportedly told his passengers "watch this" before huffing the aerosol can and blacking out.
Police found the can of cleaner and the receipt on the floor of his car. He admitted to inhaling the cleaner.
The man will be charged with illegal use of a solvent and driving under the influence of an inhalant.
An 18-year-old man crashed his car into a guardrail after huffing a spray can of electronic equipment cleaner that he purchased just 10 minutes before.
Police were called for a report of an unconscious driver who had slammed into a guardrail. As police were en route they were notified that three passengers inside the car had ran from the car.
When police arrived they found the 18-year-old, high school senior, sitting on the sidewalk. The man told police he had blacked out and refused any medical treatment.
According to police the man blacked out, crossed a median and hit the guardrail on the opposite side of the road.
The passengers, ranging in ages from 14-16, were waiting at a nearby restaurant for police to arrive. The man had reportedly told his passengers "watch this" before huffing the aerosol can and blacking out.
Police found the can of cleaner and the receipt on the floor of his car. He admitted to inhaling the cleaner.
The man will be charged with illegal use of a solvent and driving under the influence of an inhalant.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
A Message from Harvey Weiss the Executive Director of the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition
When Prevention Fails or Comes Too Late:
By: Harvey Weiss the Executive Director of the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition
At a recent meeting I mentioned data included in this and our last UPDATE and was challenged about the data’s accuracy. This sort of reminded me of the old Rodney Dangerfield line, “I can’t get no respect.” Or should I say, inhalants can’t get no respect!
Inhalant abuse is generally not the first thing that crops up when people talk or write about major substance abuse challenges; especially among adults. Meth, crack and heroin ring out but who would guess more adults “huff” than get involved in these substances. As perspective and to link some concerns together, I’ll cite a few facts that are elaborated on in our last UPDATE and this one:
Any time an inhalant is used or experimented with, it could be a fatal episode;
• Inhalants are usually the first substance a young person experiments with;
• Among 12 or 13 year olds, more kids “huff” than do any other illicit substance;
• For all people 12 and older, more people abuse inhalants than use meth, cocaine, heroin, oxycontin, LSD or sedatives;
• More people over the age of 18 are in treatment for inhalant dependence than are individuals younger than 18; and
• At least 280 inhalant related deaths were reported to the NIPC last year.
I would be the first to concur that the problems associated with use of meth, crack, heroin, oxycontin, LSD and sedatives are important and must be addressed. However we rarely hear the term inhalant abuse uttered with the same frequency or in the same context of alarm as these substances. Maybe it is about time more attention be paid to the substance being abused by more people - INHALANTS. We can no longer say our messages are just for youth but we must expand our audience to embrace adults of all ages.
While education and awareness are the keys to early prevention there must also be ongoing efforts to help people of all ages caught up in the stranglehold of inhalant abuse.
By: Harvey Weiss the Executive Director of the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition
At a recent meeting I mentioned data included in this and our last UPDATE and was challenged about the data’s accuracy. This sort of reminded me of the old Rodney Dangerfield line, “I can’t get no respect.” Or should I say, inhalants can’t get no respect!
Inhalant abuse is generally not the first thing that crops up when people talk or write about major substance abuse challenges; especially among adults. Meth, crack and heroin ring out but who would guess more adults “huff” than get involved in these substances. As perspective and to link some concerns together, I’ll cite a few facts that are elaborated on in our last UPDATE and this one:
Any time an inhalant is used or experimented with, it could be a fatal episode;
• Inhalants are usually the first substance a young person experiments with;
• Among 12 or 13 year olds, more kids “huff” than do any other illicit substance;
• For all people 12 and older, more people abuse inhalants than use meth, cocaine, heroin, oxycontin, LSD or sedatives;
• More people over the age of 18 are in treatment for inhalant dependence than are individuals younger than 18; and
• At least 280 inhalant related deaths were reported to the NIPC last year.
I would be the first to concur that the problems associated with use of meth, crack, heroin, oxycontin, LSD and sedatives are important and must be addressed. However we rarely hear the term inhalant abuse uttered with the same frequency or in the same context of alarm as these substances. Maybe it is about time more attention be paid to the substance being abused by more people - INHALANTS. We can no longer say our messages are just for youth but we must expand our audience to embrace adults of all ages.
While education and awareness are the keys to early prevention there must also be ongoing efforts to help people of all ages caught up in the stranglehold of inhalant abuse.
Q&A with the Director of the New England Inhalant Abuse Prevention Coalition: Howard Wolfe
Howard Wolfe is the Director of the New England Inhalant Abuse Prevention Coalition. He started working on inhalant abuse with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health in 1994, as a founding member of Massachusetts Inhalant Abuse Task Force. The task force developed an educational campaign called, “A Breath Away,” in response to a dramatic increase in incidents of inhalant abuse in Massachusetts in the early 1990’s. The goal of the program, which also formed the foundation for his current organization, was to educate as many adults as possible who have an ongoing relationship with kids.
What is the New England Inhalant Abuse Prevention Coalition?
The New England Inhalant Abuse Prevention Coalition was founded based on a 2003
Center for Substance Abuse Prevention Grant to Howard Wolfe and the New England Institute for Addiction Studies. The goal was to disseminate best practices in inhalant abuse prevention and treatment to all of New England.
Has the Coalition been successful?
The results of the initial attempts was an incredible one year, 27% drop in first time use, which means an astonishing 50,000 kids in New England chose NOT to start using inhalants. The latest data shows that New England continues to improved upon this drop; inhalant use is down 40% from the project base-line (2005). (Data is from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health.)
How did you accomplish this?
Early on we did research that showed that adults were in the dark about inhalants, but many kids knew. We developed a website for parents, www.InhalantAbuseTraining.org, a 20 minute training which teaches parents about inhalants, how to spot use, and contains scripts to assist parents of all aged kids to start a conversation with their kids about the dangers of inhalant abuse and safe use of products. Inhalants are never referred to as drugs (unless they already see it as a drug), and there is no mention of getting “high,” but rather they are referred to as poisons, pollutants, toxins, and fire and explosion hazards, which is what these products become when misused. The coalition worked with the existing prevention and treatment systems in each state to enhance their effectiveness with inhalant abuse best practices. For more information about our approach, go to www.inhalantprevention.org .
Have you seen any negative trends lately?
Though New England rates of abuse are now at historic lows, products that have no odor or residue are becoming more popular. Because their use is hard to detect, people are able to abuse products in their bedrooms, at work or in cars. The result is an increase in dangerous activities like using inhalants while driving or at work (on ladders, for instance).
What is next for the New England Inhalant Abuse Coalition?
Our goal now is to take what we have learned about best practices in inhalant abuse prevention and treatment and share them with other parts of the US. We are also seeking to engage the federal government as well. Inhalants are the only drug for which there are no federal laws and no national policy.
In your opinion, what do you think is the most important thing for parents and
communities to know about inhalant abuse?
We can prevent a lot of inhalant abuse just by spreading our “Key Messages” to anyone who has a relationship with a child or teen. Those messages are:
1. More than 1,000 everyday products, including cleaning, office, and art supplies, sol¬vents, gases, and shop chemicals have the potential to be abused as inhalants.
2. Inhalants are actually poisons, pollutants, toxins, and fire hazards. They are made of crude oil and were never meant to be inhaled.
3. These products are safe when used as directed, but when vapors are concen¬trated and breathed in, they can become dangerous and deadly.
4. There is no level of safe use for inhalants. 33% of deaths are the result of first time use.
5. Inhalants can be addictive, both psychologically and physically. There are roughly as many inhalant addicts as heroin ad¬dicts in this country.
6. Inhalants can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, lungs, liver, kid¬neys, and brain.
7. More kids are using inhalants than adults think – and at earlier ages. Along with tobacco and alcohol, it is one of the first drugs that children will try. Nationally, nearly one out of five 8th through 12th graders has intentionally inhaled to get high. Recent data suggest growing interest in inhalants by older teens and adults.
8. We can prevent inhalant abuse by being aware of the problem and talking to children about product safety, reading warning labels on products and modeling safe use and safe storage.
For more information, visit www.InhalantAbuseTraining.org.
What is the New England Inhalant Abuse Prevention Coalition?
The New England Inhalant Abuse Prevention Coalition was founded based on a 2003
Center for Substance Abuse Prevention Grant to Howard Wolfe and the New England Institute for Addiction Studies. The goal was to disseminate best practices in inhalant abuse prevention and treatment to all of New England.
Has the Coalition been successful?
The results of the initial attempts was an incredible one year, 27% drop in first time use, which means an astonishing 50,000 kids in New England chose NOT to start using inhalants. The latest data shows that New England continues to improved upon this drop; inhalant use is down 40% from the project base-line (2005). (Data is from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health.)
How did you accomplish this?
Early on we did research that showed that adults were in the dark about inhalants, but many kids knew. We developed a website for parents, www.InhalantAbuseTraining.org, a 20 minute training which teaches parents about inhalants, how to spot use, and contains scripts to assist parents of all aged kids to start a conversation with their kids about the dangers of inhalant abuse and safe use of products. Inhalants are never referred to as drugs (unless they already see it as a drug), and there is no mention of getting “high,” but rather they are referred to as poisons, pollutants, toxins, and fire and explosion hazards, which is what these products become when misused. The coalition worked with the existing prevention and treatment systems in each state to enhance their effectiveness with inhalant abuse best practices. For more information about our approach, go to www.inhalantprevention.org .
Have you seen any negative trends lately?
Though New England rates of abuse are now at historic lows, products that have no odor or residue are becoming more popular. Because their use is hard to detect, people are able to abuse products in their bedrooms, at work or in cars. The result is an increase in dangerous activities like using inhalants while driving or at work (on ladders, for instance).
What is next for the New England Inhalant Abuse Coalition?
Our goal now is to take what we have learned about best practices in inhalant abuse prevention and treatment and share them with other parts of the US. We are also seeking to engage the federal government as well. Inhalants are the only drug for which there are no federal laws and no national policy.
In your opinion, what do you think is the most important thing for parents and
communities to know about inhalant abuse?
We can prevent a lot of inhalant abuse just by spreading our “Key Messages” to anyone who has a relationship with a child or teen. Those messages are:
1. More than 1,000 everyday products, including cleaning, office, and art supplies, sol¬vents, gases, and shop chemicals have the potential to be abused as inhalants.
2. Inhalants are actually poisons, pollutants, toxins, and fire hazards. They are made of crude oil and were never meant to be inhaled.
3. These products are safe when used as directed, but when vapors are concen¬trated and breathed in, they can become dangerous and deadly.
4. There is no level of safe use for inhalants. 33% of deaths are the result of first time use.
5. Inhalants can be addictive, both psychologically and physically. There are roughly as many inhalant addicts as heroin ad¬dicts in this country.
6. Inhalants can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, lungs, liver, kid¬neys, and brain.
7. More kids are using inhalants than adults think – and at earlier ages. Along with tobacco and alcohol, it is one of the first drugs that children will try. Nationally, nearly one out of five 8th through 12th graders has intentionally inhaled to get high. Recent data suggest growing interest in inhalants by older teens and adults.
8. We can prevent inhalant abuse by being aware of the problem and talking to children about product safety, reading warning labels on products and modeling safe use and safe storage.
For more information, visit www.InhalantAbuseTraining.org.
FOX 9 of St. Paul Minnesota Covers ACE's Partnership with the Minnesota Twins
Via myfoxtwincities.com St. Paul, MN
FOX 9 medical expert Dr. Archelle Georgiou talks with a former abuser and a local prevention expert about the warning signs of inhalant abuse in addition to the Alliance for Consumer Education's "Strike Out Inhalant Abuse in Minnesota" initiative with the Minnesota Twins.
FOX 9 medical expert Dr. Archelle Georgiou talks with a former abuser and a local prevention expert about the warning signs of inhalant abuse in addition to the Alliance for Consumer Education's "Strike Out Inhalant Abuse in Minnesota" initiative with the Minnesota Twins.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Female Injured After Fight With Male Huffer
Via freemonttribune.com Freemont, NE
After injuring a female roommate during a fight, a 22-year-old Freemont man has been sentenced to spend 90 days in prison.
The fight occured after the man had been drinking and huffing.
This is not the first substance abuse incident in the man's criminal history.
After injuring a female roommate during a fight, a 22-year-old Freemont man has been sentenced to spend 90 days in prison.
The fight occured after the man had been drinking and huffing.
This is not the first substance abuse incident in the man's criminal history.
Collision Caused As a Result of Huffing
Via postbulletin.com Rochester, MN
A 31-year-old Washaba woman was charged with two counts of criminal vehicular operation after causing a collison by crossing into oncoming traffic.
The woman was driving after huffing a dust remover.
The collision severely injured another driver.
Each charge carries a maximum of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. She appears in court May 18.
A 31-year-old Washaba woman was charged with two counts of criminal vehicular operation after causing a collison by crossing into oncoming traffic.
The woman was driving after huffing a dust remover.
The collision severely injured another driver.
Each charge carries a maximum of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. She appears in court May 18.
Bolingbrook Man Arrested After Huffing Keyboard Duster in Adult Bookstore
Via wlsam.com Chicago, Il
A 41-year-old Bolingbrook man was arrested after admitting to huffing from a keyboard duster can at an adult book store.
The man was arrested and charged with unlawful use of an intoxicating compound.
Authorities then searched his vehicle charging him with unlawful possesion of a controlled substance after finding numerous prescription pills in the vehicle.
A 41-year-old Bolingbrook man was arrested after admitting to huffing from a keyboard duster can at an adult book store.
The man was arrested and charged with unlawful use of an intoxicating compound.
Authorities then searched his vehicle charging him with unlawful possesion of a controlled substance after finding numerous prescription pills in the vehicle.
Woman Crashes Into Utility Pole After Disorientation From Gas Cleaner
Via needham.patch.com Needham, Massachusetts
A 30-year-old Cambridge woman was charged with OUI after crashing her vehicle into a utility pole.
The woman told police she had been huffing gas cleaner and smoking pot while driving which led her become disoriented and crash into the utility pole.
Police found a glass pipe with a green substance and a can of cleaner inside the vehicle.
The woman was arrested on four different charges that include: smelling a substance with toxic vapors, OUI of drugs, negligent operation of a motor vehicle and failure to stay in marked lines.
A 30-year-old Cambridge woman was charged with OUI after crashing her vehicle into a utility pole.
The woman told police she had been huffing gas cleaner and smoking pot while driving which led her become disoriented and crash into the utility pole.
Police found a glass pipe with a green substance and a can of cleaner inside the vehicle.
The woman was arrested on four different charges that include: smelling a substance with toxic vapors, OUI of drugs, negligent operation of a motor vehicle and failure to stay in marked lines.
Man Huffs Himself Unconscious in County Sherrif's Parking Lot
Via arkansasmatters.com Batesville, Arkansas
A 29-year-old Batesville man was taken into custody after huffing himself unconscious in the parking lot of the Independence County Sherrif's office.
A deputy found the man slumped over the wheel of his vehicle with a can of compressed gas near his nose.
The deputy reported that the man was incoherent and could barely stand.
A 29-year-old Batesville man was taken into custody after huffing himself unconscious in the parking lot of the Independence County Sherrif's office.
A deputy found the man slumped over the wheel of his vehicle with a can of compressed gas near his nose.
The deputy reported that the man was incoherent and could barely stand.
Driver Witnesses Another Driver Huffing While Driving
Via dentonrc.com Denton County, TX
A caller reported to police that he had witnessed a man stop in the middle of an intersection and huff from an aerosol can. After huffing the man shook his head and fell against the door, reported the witness.
The witness then followed the driver and informed the authorities of where he was heading.
Paramedics arrived and reported that there were two aerosol cans in the vehicle, one between the mans legs and one on the floor.
Officers then caught up with the man and he proceeded to tell them he did not know where he was. Officers confiscated the aerosol cans and a needle and spoon with heroin residue on them.
The man was arrested and charged with possesion of inhalants, obstructing a roadway and driving with a suspended license.
A caller reported to police that he had witnessed a man stop in the middle of an intersection and huff from an aerosol can. After huffing the man shook his head and fell against the door, reported the witness.
The witness then followed the driver and informed the authorities of where he was heading.
Paramedics arrived and reported that there were two aerosol cans in the vehicle, one between the mans legs and one on the floor.
Officers then caught up with the man and he proceeded to tell them he did not know where he was. Officers confiscated the aerosol cans and a needle and spoon with heroin residue on them.
The man was arrested and charged with possesion of inhalants, obstructing a roadway and driving with a suspended license.
Police Investigate a Possible Huffing Related Crash
Via wdtn.com Dayton, OH
A man was arrested after driving his Land Rover into a parked car, then proceeding to slam into an Office Depot building.
The accident occured after he had purchased cans of compressed gas.
No drugs were found inside the car, but authorities are further investigating whether the suspect had been huffing before the incident.
The driver is charged with failure to control and drug abuse by harmful intoxicants.
A man was arrested after driving his Land Rover into a parked car, then proceeding to slam into an Office Depot building.
The accident occured after he had purchased cans of compressed gas.
No drugs were found inside the car, but authorities are further investigating whether the suspect had been huffing before the incident.
The driver is charged with failure to control and drug abuse by harmful intoxicants.
Huffing Industrial-Strength Duster Led to a Hit and Run
Via wtov9.com in Ohio Valley, OH
A Toronto man was arrested by Steubenville police after driving his car several yards away from a hit and run crash.
The man was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated. He had been huffing industrial-strength duster. The police report described him as "zombie" like during the arrest.
A Toronto man was arrested by Steubenville police after driving his car several yards away from a hit and run crash.
The man was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated. He had been huffing industrial-strength duster. The police report described him as "zombie" like during the arrest.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Huffing Crash Leaves Man in Wheelchair
Via rapidcityjournal.com in Rapid City, SD
A 25-year-old Rapid City man, has pleaded guilty to vehicular battery in a crash that occured on May 7.
Inhaling dust cleaner led him to black out while driving. As a result, three vehicles were involved in the accident including a 4-year-old child and a motorcycle driver. The 4-year-old's father was the only driver involved critically injured.
The 4-year-old's father, now in a wheel chair, is slowly regaining some movement and speech.
"He still has a long way to go," said Pennington County Deputy State's Attorney.
The man will be sentenced Dec. 3, facing up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
A 25-year-old Rapid City man, has pleaded guilty to vehicular battery in a crash that occured on May 7.
Inhaling dust cleaner led him to black out while driving. As a result, three vehicles were involved in the accident including a 4-year-old child and a motorcycle driver. The 4-year-old's father was the only driver involved critically injured.
The 4-year-old's father, now in a wheel chair, is slowly regaining some movement and speech.
"He still has a long way to go," said Pennington County Deputy State's Attorney.
The man will be sentenced Dec. 3, facing up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
AC Units Installed With Extra Security Due to Refrigerant Abuse
Via nbc12.com in Richmond, VA
As refrigerant addiction increases among children, S. A. F. E. Chesterfield, a substance abuse prevention group in Chesterfield VA, is working to stop the trend.
Mona Casey, a Florida mom, lost her 15-year-old son Charles to a refrigerant addiction. What started as an after school habit with a friend cost him his life. Casey created http://www.uproarorg.org/ to educate people on the day to day dangers of substance abuse. Starting this year, AC units are being installed with an added security feature.
Dominion Service Company of Richmond and many other air conditioning technicians now install a small cap that fits around the valve where refrigerant can be released. The cap can only be removed by a key that is unavailable to the public.
"I'm very, very happy that the people there in Virginia are taking this very seriously," said Casey.
To date 400 caps have been installed in the Richmond area.
As refrigerant addiction increases among children, S. A. F. E. Chesterfield, a substance abuse prevention group in Chesterfield VA, is working to stop the trend.
Mona Casey, a Florida mom, lost her 15-year-old son Charles to a refrigerant addiction. What started as an after school habit with a friend cost him his life. Casey created http://www.uproarorg.org/ to educate people on the day to day dangers of substance abuse. Starting this year, AC units are being installed with an added security feature.
Dominion Service Company of Richmond and many other air conditioning technicians now install a small cap that fits around the valve where refrigerant can be released. The cap can only be removed by a key that is unavailable to the public.
"I'm very, very happy that the people there in Virginia are taking this very seriously," said Casey.
To date 400 caps have been installed in the Richmond area.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Strikeout Inhalant Abuse in Minnesota!!
Media Contact:Bill Brozak
Alliance for Consumer Education
(952) 851-7227
bbrozak@tunheim.com
New Statewide Campaign Alerts Families to the Dangers of
Inhalant Abuse
Launch event with Minnesota Twins and statewide educational campaign aimed at raising awareness about growing substance abuse problem among kids
MINNEAPOLIS – It’s a problem that endangers one out of every four kids. It involves more than 1,400 common household, school and office products. It’s called “huffing” or “sniffing”: a growing epidemic of inhalant abuse that can be addictive and deadly – with kids as young as eight years old using inhalants to get high.
“That’s why the Alliance for Consumer Education (ACE) is launching “Strike Out Inhalant Abuse in Minnesota,” said Colleen Creighton. ACE Executive Director. “This campaign is a state-wide awareness and coalition-building campaign aimed at alerting Minnesota families about the prevalence and dangers of inhalant abuse in children.
“Inhalants are particularly dangerous in that kids can die the first time and every time they use inhalants,” said Chris Cathcart, ACE secretary and President & CEO of the Consumer Specialty Products Association. “Because the high dissipates so quickly and inhalants are cheap and accessible, overdosing is a very real danger. Not only can inhalants cause heart attacks and suffocation, they can also lead to depression, irregular heartbeats and damage to the liver and kidneys.”
To kick-off the campaign, ACE and the Minnesota Twins are partnering for “Strike Out Inhalant Abuse Day” at the May 13 home-game against the Toronto Blue Jays. The first 10,000 fans through the gates will receive a “Strike Out Inhalant Abuse in Minnesota” poster featuring each of the Twins pitchers and their strikeout records. Local kids will participate in pre-game and 7th inning stretch events, and a new public service announcement featuring Twins pitcher and Stillwater native, Glen Perkins, will be debuted on the large video board at center field.
In addition to the Minnesota Twins, community organizations including Minnesota PTA, Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals, Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association, Minnesota/Northern Lights SADD and Minnesota Teen Challenge, and businesses such as Ecolab and 3M have joined the coalition to strengthen the impact of the campaign. Awareness and coalition-building efforts will continue throughout the year to help spread the message about the dangers of inhalant abuse and how to prevent it.
Parents, educators and community leaders can learn more about potentially dangerous products, warning signs of abuse, how to approach the issue and more by downloading the Inhalant Abuse Prevention Toolkit at www.inhalant.org.
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