Cocaine Awareness Weekends
Posted on: Thursday 21st January 2010
A Scottish Government have run a campaign warning festive revellers about the serious health dangers of cocaine.
The Cocaine Awareness Weekends (CAWs) let people know the real risks of taking cocaine which can increase the chances of having a heart attack and is associated with stroke.
The weekends were held before and during the Christmas party season at a time when temptation to experiment may be high.
Immediate effects from cocaine use include an increased heart rate, palpitations, sweating and chest pain. This can result in users becoming agitated and anxious which can turn into panic or paranoia.
The CAWs, took place across six locations across Scotland, and involved staff in pubs, clubs and student unions joining forces with Know the Score to highlight the health risks of cocaine use to the young people who socialise there.
Launching the CAWs, Minister for Community Safety, Fergus Ewing, said: “Many young people are not aware of the risks involved in cocaine use and the Scottish Government want to ensure they have all the facts by providing clear information in pubs, clubs and student unions.
“It is essential that people are aware of the very real dangers of using cocaine including the greater risk of heart attacks and its link with strokes.
“I’m delighted at the support from our local partners, particular many licensees, for this important joint initiative.
“As well as making clear the legal consequences of drug misuse, people need to know the health risks, even from so-called ‘recreational’ use of cocaine. By informing them, this campaign can help Scots enjoy their festive season in safety.”
The initiative is being delivered in partnership with various licence trade schemes in each region including members from Edinburgh’s Safeguard and Unight schemes, Glasgow West End Pub Watch and Glasgow’s G1 Group.
