Freon huffing latest inhalant abuse

To the editor:
I recently read a disturbing article about teens huffing Freon from the outside air conditioning units. One parent who lost her son to huffing has worked to change international mechanical and residential code. According to this article they have been installing units with extra security since the beginning of this year. A company in Richmond, Va., has started installing the security device on older models as well.  The locks cannot be easily removed. The only ones who can remove the locks are licensed technicians with a key that’s unavailable to the public.
Huffing, or inhaling volatile substances, seems to be most popular among those children in the middle school age group who are starting to experiment with different things, but it has also shown its face in youth at the high school level as well. Huffing is unbelievably dangerous and may kill more people the first time they try it than any other form of substance abuse available.
Please be aware of the products you keep in your home and any mysterious disappearances of such items.  Substances most commonly used by inhalant abusers include paint thinners, gasoline, felt-tip markers, nail polish remover, glue, spray paint, deodorant, hair care products, and other household products.
The effects of huffing will be similar to those of alcohol use and the person will smell strongly of chemicals.  Also, be aware of unexplained scratches or sores around the mouth.  The abuse of inhalants can cause permanent damage to the brain and other organs or even sudden cardiac death. Please investigate further if there is any suspicion of these activities and contact your heating and cooling technician if you have concerns that someone may be tampering with your air conditioning unit.
PJ Corwin
Jay County Drug
Prevention Coalition[[In-content Ad]]