Vape fluid kids are 'dicing with death' in Dingwall
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COUNCIL officials have refused to confirm or deny rumours that two teens have been suspended from a Ross-shire school after several pupils who drank vaping fluid fell “seriously unwell”.
Last week’s incident at Dingwall Academy sparked warnings from worried doctors and teachers that children who consume e-cigarette fluid are dicing with death.
Responding to claims from a parent that there had now been suspensions in connection with the incident, a Highland Council spokeswoman this week said: “We do not comment on or confirm pupil exclusions or suspensions.”
Meanwhile, police said they were “aware” of the incident and added that “enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances”.
“We are working closely with the school and Highland Council as these enquiries continue,” said Area Inspector Kevin Macleod, who echoed warnings about the “potentially serious consequences” of drinking the fluid.
His comments come after Dr Jenny Wares – a consultant in health protection at NHS Highland – urged parents to highlight the dangers with their children in the hope there is no repeat of the incident.
“When ingested, the contents of the fluid are highly toxic and can be fatal,” she said. “The main risk of toxicity is from the nicotine content although there is a risk of toxicity from other ingredients within the fluid.
“If you have any concerns that an individual has ingested fluid from an electronic cigarette please seek immediate medical attention by calling 999 and don’t leave the person alone.
“There are a wide range of possible symptoms including nausea and vomiting, confusion, agitation and headaches, dizziness, excessive sweating, breathing difficulties, altered heart rate and possible fitting.”
Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP Kate Forbes – herself a former pupil of the school – said the incident was “very concerning” and she was “grateful” that there had been prompt action by rector Karen Cormack and doctors to warn children and parents of the dangers.
“I hope the message gets out to young people loud and clear,” she added.
