Solvents campaign goes national

Substance abuse kills dozens of people every year in the UK

A national campaign has been launched aimed at cutting the number of deaths from the abuse of butane gas.

A drive to raise awareness of the law banning the sale of cigarette lighter refills to under-18s has already taken place in Fife.

The campaign is being extended across Scotland to try to ensure that solvents do not get into the hands of children.

Deputy Justice Minister Hugh Henry said youngsters must be aware there were no "safe kicks" with solvent abuse.

About 60 people die in the UK every year from the abuse of such substances, approximately 15% of them in Scotland.

Although the number of deaths each year has remained relatively steady, even one death is one too many Hugh Henry Deputy Justice Minister

Butane gas, which is commonly found in cigarette lighter refills or aerosol sprays, is the most commonly abused volatile substance.

Sniffing lighter fuel gives a temporary high, but can kill.

It can cause side effects such as vomiting and dizziness and can cause suffocation within 20 seconds or leave people with serious brain damage.

Launching the campaign at a newsagent's shop in Edinburgh, Mr Henry said: "The Scottish Executive is committed to tackling the ongoing problem of solvent abuse in Scotland and increasing awareness.

Legislation concern

"Although the number of deaths each year has remained relatively steady, even one death is one too many.

"It's vital to raise public awareness of the dangers of abusing products such as cigarette lighter refills, aerosol sprays and glue.

"We must persuade youngsters, who may not fully appreciate the risks involved, that there is no safe way to sniff or inhale volatile substances - there are no safe kicks with solvents."

The minister said there was anecdotal evidence of genuine ignorance of the legislation which makes it illegal to sell butane gas lighter refills to under-18s.

"This campaign aims to change that and stop volatile substances form getting into the hands of our young people." Mr Henry added.

A leaflet, poster and window sticker campaign which proved successful in raising awareness of solvent abuse in Fife will be used throughout the country.

The Scottish Drugs Forum and pressure group ReSolv are supporting the public awareness drive.