Police Seen Increase In "Huffing" Incidents

Huron police have made a significant number of arrests for “Huffing” in recent weeks. And those arrested have been juveniles. “Huffing” is a term used to describe the abuse of inhalants. Nine juvenile males have been arrested in the past two weeks after being seen by witnesses and police, with white bags around their mouths. Substances abused through “huffing” include volatile solvents and aerosols, such as cleaning products, some glues, paint and paint thinners, hair sprays, makers and more.  Police say combating “huffing” is difficult since most of the products used are legal to buy and hard to monitor. A “huffing” high only lasts a few minutes and it’s effects are similar to that of alcohol with slurred speech, lack of coordination, euphoria and dizziness. Users will try and extend the effects by repeatedly breathing in the materials for hours at a time. No laws exist that restrict the sale of most of the products used in huffing, but businesses can decline to sell such products, when suspicious circumstances are present. Huron police are asking area businesses also to be aware of the trend and keep an eye out for possible related activities. If you see inhalant abuse your asked to contact the Huron Police at 353-85-50.