Substance use and sometimes abuse in our youth population can involve more than illicit drugs.
On KOZI Community Connection, Chelan School Resource Officer, Sheriff’s Deputy Alex Bushy said vaping is a growing concern.
"It originally came out as the fix-it for smoking and it's going to help you cut these habits; and it's less nicotine, less tobacco products and all these harmful chemicals, but it's (vaping) just as harmful," said Deputy Bushy. “One of our biggest concerns is how easily accessible these products have become. Many youth believe vaping is a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, but the reality is that these products often contain high levels of nicotine and other substances that can harm developing brains.”
Deputy Bushy shared alarming statistics showing a rise in teen vaping and discussed the health risks linked to nicotine addiction and exposure to harmful chemicals. He also shed light on the deceptive marketing strategies targeting young people, making this challenge even harder for schools and parents to effectively address.
"We have a bunch of products that we've been seeing in the schools, in our community. A lot of parents don't even known what these look like. Distributors are trying to market them, they're targeting our youth. They're targeting with flavors, with designs, there's vapes called 'smart vapes' that even have games on them."
Deputy Bushy to parents or guardians, "We can support you. I can only help as much as I know."
If you're wanting to know more about substance use among youth, contact the Chelan County Sheriff's Office at 401 Washington St. in Wenatchee, by email, Sheriff@co.chelan.wa.us, or by phone at (509) 667-6851.
Comentarios