(Photo: Piotr Chrobot/Unsplash)
Deliberately inhaling or smoking the contents of a fire extinguisher is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious health problems, including respiratory distress, seizures and even death.
The warning comes from the Johannesburg emergency services amid videos circulating online showing young people twisting open a fire extinguisher in their mouths and inhaling and exhaling its contents.
“Fire extinguishers are safety devices and are not intended for human use or inhalation. Parents are encouraged to educate their children about the dangers of inhaling the contents of fire extinguishers.”
Meanwhile, the Department of Basic Education also said it had taken note of the distribution of the videos with serious concern.
The department condemned this type of behavior and warned that inhaling chemical substances in this way poses serious and potentially fatal health risks, including brain damage, respiratory failure and sudden death.
“Schools are intended to be safe environments dedicated to learning and the development of our children. Any activity that endangers the lives and well-being of learners undermines this responsibility and will not be tolerated”
The department appealed to parents and guardians to remain vigilant and actively engage in discussions with their children about the dangers of drug abuse and harmful social media trends.
“Parents should monitor behavioral changes, unusual objects brought home, or signs that learners may be participating in risky activities.”
The department is also urging all schools to immediately strengthen and strictly enforce school safety protocols.
This includes random inspections where necessary, in accordance with school policies and applicable regulations, monitoring items brought onto school grounds, and strengthening life orientation education about substance abuse, peer pressure and risky behavior.
“There must also be assurance that educators and school management teams intervene quickly when dangerous behavior is detected. There must also be close cooperation with school governing bodies, parents and local authorities to prevent such activities.”