Concerns Regarding Reports of Vapes Being Used for Drugs
Schools are sounding the alarm regarding the presence of drugs in vaping devices, prompted by incidents where students from multiple schools were hospitalised after using vapes containing THC. Concerns have escalated as reports reveal that at least two schools have witnessed such emergencies this year.
Schools Week Report
A recent report by Schools Week indicates a worrying trend for students to use vapes as a carrier for drugs. Pupils from at least two schools have been hospitalised after inhaling vapes laced with THC – the main psychoactive component in cannabis so far this year.
Honywood School
Honywood School in Essex recently notified parents after discovering that some students had accessed and used vaping devices with THC. Additionally, councils like Middlesbrough, Hampshire, and Brighton have issued advisories on the potential dangers of these substances among young people.
A survey conducted by the teachers' union NASUWT revealed that 85% of its 4,000 members believe vaping poses a problem on school grounds, with many reporting instances of students falling ill or exhibiting altered behaviour due to vaping THC. According to a report by the school, some students were “vaping THC and being sick, passing out and being high whilst on school premises”, and that there had been an “escalation from vaping nicotine to THC”.
James Saunders, headteacher at Honywood School, mentioned the challenges in monitoring vaping, especially with odourless THC vapes. Despite efforts to curb vaping, incidents like students collapsing and requiring hospitalization continue to occur.
Law Enforcement
Headteachers like Jane Richardson of Burnley Unity College and Glyn Potts of Newman RC College in Oldham have emphasized the need for collaboration with law enforcement and health agencies to address the issue. They also highlight the importance of educating students about the risks associated with vaping illegal substances.
Vape Detectors
Efforts to mitigate risks include investing in technologies like vape detectors and fireproof boxes for storing confiscated devices. However, despite these measures, the prevalence of illicit vaping remains a concern for schools and authorities alike.
Newman RC College, in Oldham is investing in a fireproof box for storing illicit vapes that are also “prone to exploding.” The college has only confiscated six vapes this academic year, none of which contained class Bs.
Government Intervention
Middlesbrough Council and Greater Manchester Police have seized numerous vapes containing illegal substances, underscoring the seriousness of the issue. Meanwhile, councils like Brighton & Hove and Hampshire are renewing efforts to prevent teen vaping and crack down on the availability of illicit products.
The government is also taking steps to address underage vaping through proposed regulations and educational initiatives. It underscores the importance of incorporating lessons on legal and illegal substances into the curriculum to equip students with the knowledge to make informed choices.