Police and NHS Highland highlight the dangers of drugs during the festive period

30th November 2013

As the festive season approaches and with the increasing number of social events, parties and Christmas nights out, Police Scotland and NHS Highland are reminding the public about the dangers of taking drugs and are advising people not to take them.

Caithness Area Inspector Nick Clasper said: "Police Scotland and our partners would like to highlight the potential implications of taking illicit substances. Our aim is to keep people safe, particularly over the upcoming Festive Period.

"Illicit substances are not subject to any form of quality check which means anyone taking them will be unaware of what they have actually consumed. This can have potentially devastating effects on their health.

"I would urge people to avoid such products and report any information to the police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Deborah Stewart, Coordinator for the Highland Alcohol and Drug Partnership (HADP), said: "Taking street drugs and Novel Psychoactive Substances can be dangerous and fatal for some people.

"The safest option is to avoid taking drugs, however we would urge drug users if they are unable to abstain, to follow harm reduction advice to reduce the risk."

Precautions include:

Avoid using drugs on your own, and always tell friends what you’ve taken and keep an eye on each other.
Remember they can be cut with other drugs or materials which can be harmful in themselves.
Never take drugs in combination – heroin taken along with benzodiazepines and/or alcohol is particularly dangerous.
Never share injecting needles or equipment – there are a number of life-threatening infections that can be passed on this way, including Hepatitis B and C and HIV.
Look out for signs of friends becoming unwell – especially signs that they may be overheating – dizziness; feeling sick or tired; sudden headaches or cramps in arms or legs; flushed face without sweating; collapse and unconsciousness.
If you or someone you are with show any of the above symptoms you must call an ambulance immediately – any delay could be fatal.
If someone you are with overdoses, place them in the recovery position, call an ambulance and stay with them until it arrives. Your help could save a life.
Ms Stewart added: "There is no way to make taking drugs completely safe. HADP works closely with NHS Highland, Police Scotland, Highland Council and our other partners to tackle these issues.

"I would advise anyone who has concerns about drugs to contact the relevant organisations for advice and support."

Further advice and information is available via the following:

Highland Drug and Alcohol Partnership - 01463 704603
Harm Reduction Services - 01463 717594
Osprey House - 01463 716888