Following a serious medical incident which occurred on Saturday evening (9th October), it has been brought to Guernsey Police's attention that some young people on the island have been gathering in large groups and abusing solvents, in this instance aerosols.
This is extremely dangerous and can have very serious consequences, as this incident has highlighted. A 13 year old boy is currently critically ill and is receiving treatment at a hospital in the UK.
We would urge parents to speak with their children about the dangers associated with this practice, and to please be aware of where your children are, who they are with and what they are doing as much as possible. This particular instance involved children between the ages of 11-15 years, who were out very late at night.
The gathering does not appear to have been a one off, and there are concerns that a similar life-threatening incidents may happen again. It was likely that this gathering was organised through social media.
Guernsey Police will continue to work with other organisations in the Bailiwick from the Youth Commission and other third sector groups to partners in HSC to tackle issues like this and to help keep our young people safe.
If you have any immediate concerns, you can contact Guernsey Police on 01481 222222, or you can call Action for Children Guernsey on 01481 700218 for advice.
Additionally, if you have any information about the incident, which occurred on 9th October 2021 in the area of Fort Houmet and Le Guet, please contact the Public Protection Unit at Police Headquarters on 01481 222222 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.