A Welsh school has issued an urgent warning to parents about a dangerous social media craze known as 'chroming', which has already led to deaths among teenagers across the world, including one in the UK. The trend involves inhaling chemicals such as aerosols, nitrous oxide, solvents, and nitrites to achieve a temporary high, but can result in severe health consequences including heart and lung damage, brain harm, and behavioural issues.
Coleg Cymunedol Y Dderwen in Bridgend sent a letter to parents and carers highlighting the trend circulating on platforms like TikTok. The school stated that the craze is particularly dangerous because it uses everyday household items like glue, permanent markers, and deodorant cans, making it hard to regulate. It added that young people may not fully understand the risks when seeing others engage in the activity online without apparent consequences.
The trend is not new, but its rapid spread via social media has raised concern. In November 2023, the UK government reclassified nitrous oxide as a Class C drug, imposing criminal penalties for abuse. Despite this, the availability of common household products makes enforcement challenging. Tragically, an 11-year-old boy in Lancashire died after participating in the trend.
Safer Schools, a safeguarding initiative, notes that children may be enticed by the intoxication, thrill-seeking, media influence, or peer pressure. The school strongly encourages parents to speak directly with their children about the risks to help them make safe and informed decisions.
