The Department of Basic Education has raised alarm over a viral social media video showing learners in school uniform inhaling powder from a fire extinguisher.
The clip, which has been widely circulated online, appears to show a group of pupils inside a classroom engaging in the act. However, authorities have not yet confirmed which school the learners attend.
Health Risks Raise Serious Concern
The department has strongly condemned the behaviour, known as “chuffing”, warning that it poses severe health risks.
Spokesperson Terence Khala said inhaling chemical substances in this way can lead to serious and potentially fatal consequences, including brain damage, respiratory failure and even death.
He stressed that schools should remain safe environments focused on learning and development, and that any behaviour putting learners at risk will not be tolerated.
Call For Parents And Schools To Act
The department has urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and actively engage with their children about the dangers of substance abuse and harmful social media trends.
Parents are encouraged to watch for warning signs such as unusual behaviour or unfamiliar items brought home.
Schools have also been called on to strengthen safety measures, including:
- Monitoring items brought onto school premises
- Conducting random inspections where necessary
- Reinforcing education around substance abuse and peer pressure
- Acting quickly when dangerous behaviour is identified
Authorities also emphasised the importance of collaboration between schools, parents and local stakeholders to prevent similar incidents.
Emergency Services Issue Warning
The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services has also warned about the dangers of the trend.
EMS stressed that fire extinguishers are safety devices and should never be used for inhalation. The service warned that doing so can result in respiratory distress, seizures and other life threatening complications.
Parents have been encouraged to educate their children about these risks, while schools are advised to work with emergency services to promote fire safety awareness.
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