Volatile Substance Abuse is when a person knowingly abuses a gas, vapour or solvent with the purpose of ‘getting high’ or harming themselves. In 2003, 52 people died as a result from abusing solvents. VSA is still responsible for more deaths in young people aged 10-16 in England and Wales than illegal drugs.

 

The most common abuses of solvents are males aged between 11 and 16 inhaling solvents from glues, lighter refills and aerosol sprays. As you can tell, these products are easily available and many of them will be found in most people’s homes.

 

Inside most aerosol cans is the gas butane, the same gas is used to refill cigarette lights. It is this gas that is becoming the most used for abusers. The most common method of abuse is spraying the gas directly into the mouth, which is as disgusting as it sounds.

 

You will all have heard how bad smoking and taking drugs is. However, solvent abuse kills so many people, many on their first go, because it can result in ‘Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome.’ This is when the abusers heart won’t beat in rhythm. This means that their heart is not pumping blood effectively, this often results in death.

 

As a result of this Trading Standards plays a major role in upholding the law that surround the sale of solvents and lighter refill products. The Supply of Intoxicating Substances Act of 1985 makes it an offense to supply anybody under the age of 18 with intoxicating substances, if the shopkeeper believes they may be used for abuse.

 

If the goods are sold illegally, Trading Standards can impose a fine of up to £5000 and / or six months in prison.

 

Trading standards free confidential hotline: 0800 093 5878

 

 

More on Age Restricted Goods:

Alcohol

Smoking

Fireworks

Solvents & Gas

Spray Paints

DVD's, Videos, Computer Games

Consumer Rights

Internet Shopping

 

 

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