Nitrous canisters found outside a Dartmouth school

The Dartmouth Police Department announced on Wednesday, March 25, the they found a number of nitrous oxide canisters at  Dartmouth High School.

The Police Department noted on their Facebook page that even though the canisters were found at the high school, it doesn’t mean they were used by anyone affiliated with the school. 

With the matter currently under investigation, it’s currently unknown who may have brought them to the school.

“Our goal is to raise awareness and help prevent potential harm, particularly among young people,” said Detective Lieutenant Keith DaCosta. 

While nitrous oxide canisters are legal to purchase for medical and culinary purposes in Massachusetts, the nitrous oxide is not legal to inhale.

The misuse of these canisters have many short and long term effects. Short term include loss of consciousness, dizziness, reduced oxygen to the brain and risk of death. Long term effects include blood clots, cognitive decline, frostbite and disability from vitamin B12 deficiencies.