Beware illicit drugs danger at summer festivals

• Minister warns there is no safe level of illicit drug use 

Mental Health Minister Helen Morton has urged West Australians to avoid illegal drugs in the wake of a spate of reported hospitalisations over the Christmas-new year break.

"Several young people have required treatment after using these substances and we are concerned for the wellbeing of young West Australians as we head into the summer season of concert events and music festivals. The best advice is not to take drugs and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time," Mrs Morton said.

There have already been several cases of people suffering health problems, including aggression and psychotic-like reactions prompting a fresh drug warning to be issued by authorities.

"There is some nasty stuff out there at the moment with frightening reactions being reported. We don't know what an illegal drug might contain, or what effect it could have - we are playing Russian roulette with our lives if we decide to take illicit drugs," the Minister said.

Mrs Morton said that thinking about how you would respond if you or your friends ran into trouble would help you to reduce the risk of anyone coming to harm if things don't go as planned.

She said if you suspected a friend was suffering bad effects from alcohol and/or drug use, remember every second counted and you should get help as soon as possible by calling 000.

      Fact File

• If someone becomes unwell or collapses due to drugs or alcohol it is very important to treat it as an emergency and get help immediately - call 000

• If you are worried that you will get yourself or the person into trouble, remember that you are helping someone and later people will be thankful that you did

• Police are not required to attend unless a death has occurred or the ambulance officers are threatened

• For more information see: http://www.drugaware.com.au or call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 9442 5000 or toll free 1800 198 024

Minister's office - 6552 6900