Police warn of laughing gas abuse

[12 June 2008]

Pierced canisters of nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, have been found in a playground in Claverham, North Somerset.

Police believe that young teenagers were experimenting with the gas that causes a floating sensation when inhaled. The chemical is usually used in food preparation and medically as a pain killer. Police are trying to find out where the children obtained the 70 canisters. Officers have said that alcohol cans and bottles were also found on the same site, a dangerous discovery since the combined effects of alcohol and laughing gas are unknown.

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