TENS of used nitrous oxide cannisters – commonly known as ‘laughing gas’ – have been collected in Conigre Mead nature reserve.
At the weekend, local volunteer and photographer, Linda De Santiz, collected 17 cannisters from the nature reserve’s pond – two weeks prior, she collected almost 20 cannisters.
The drug is commonly inhaled using standard party balloons, which have also been retrieved in and around the nature reserve.
“The balloons are very dangerous to wildlife if they are swallowed,” said Linda.
It was reported in the Melksham News last October that according to the town council, recreational use of ‘laughing gas’ is on the rise in the town.
Cannisters have also been found outside the pavillion in King George Playing Field and in the Prince of Wales garden on Church Street.
Nitrous oxide is known to be popular with young people. And the use of cannisters is thought to be increasing because they are cheap and it is not illegal to buy the gas, which has legitimate uses such as numbing pain during medical procedures, and use in catering aerosol cans and engines.
However, the gas is covered by the Psychoactive Substances Act, and is illegal to supply for its psychoactive effect – supply and production can result in up to 7 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.
When the nitrous oxide gas is inhaled, it can make users feel euphoric and relaxed but can also cause hallucinations, dizziness and passing out. In some cases there have been sudden death through lack of oxygen, and the effects of the gas can cause permanent nerve damage.
If you are worried about someone you know who uses nitrous oxide recreationally, call FRANK – the national anti-drug advisory service – on 0300 1236600 for friendly, confidential advice or visit the website: www.talktofrank.com/drug/nitrous-oxide
