Freon Huffing in Utah on the Rise

You know that huffing chemicals from household containers is dangerous and potentially deadly. A new huffing trend, particularly amongst teenagers, involves kids going into their own—or someone else’s—backyard to try this dangerous new thrill. Air conditioning units use Freon, which when inhaled can give someone a short-term high.

The consequences of Freon huffing can be severe. There are the physical problems a person who huffs may encounter, including death, which is the most serious result of huffing. There is also the problem huffing presents to an air conditioning unit. When depleted of Freon, it only takes a few minutes for an air conditioning unit to be destroyed. Professionals suggest putting a lock on your air conditioner. It’s not terribly expensive, easy to install and difficult to remove.

Parents should check their air conditioning unit, or have it professionally tested, to make certain that the Freon isn’t below appropriate levels. Parents can also attempt to keep track of their teenager’s whereabouts. Teens should think twice before inhaling anything that comes out of an air conditioner. A temporary high isn’t worth the long-term damage it can cause to their bodies.

Don’t forget that inhaling certain chemicals is illegal as well. We’ve mentioned before that inhaling nitrous oxide for purposes other than those involving a medical or dental procedure is against the law. If a juvenile has been charged with inhaling chemicals, their parent should contact a Utah juvenile defense attorney. Kids are generally able to be helped with addiction problems, and an attorney can be of great assistance in helping with legal problems.