JANUARY 2002
I hope that everyone had an enjoyable Christmas and New Year.
Now is the time when most of us attend the January sales and spend lots of money. Regrettably, there are a few criminals who work in shops and markets who 'clone' credit and bank cards, and they then run up purchases on your accoun! Make sure that you never let your card out of your sight when purchasing goods. Also ensure that you check carefully your statement when it arrives. If there are any suspicious transactions report them immediately to your credit card company or bank.
Remember, never leave shopping, wallets, purses, handbags etc. unattended or in sight in your parked car.
CONTINUING THE ARTICLES ON DRUG ABUSE:
HEROIN
Heroin is a brownish-white powder which is smoked, 'snorted' nasally or dissolved and injected. It's also known as SMACK, BROWN, HORSE, GEAR, JUNK, H, JACK, and SCAG.
(1) THE EFFECTS
(a) small doses give the user a sense of warmth and well-being,
(b) larger doses can make users drowsy and relaxed.
(2) THE HEALTH RISKS
- Heroin is highly addictive (even when smoked) and is now reasonably cheap.
- Users who become addicted have to take the drug just to feel normal.
- Excessive amounts can result in overdose COMA and, in some cases, DEATH.
- Injecting regularly often causes damage to veins which can lead to them collapsing.
(e) Sharing injecting equipment puts the users at risk of serious infections like Hepatitis 'B' or 'C' as well as 'HIV' which will result in death.
Unfortunately, heroin, like most other drugs,
IS EASILY AVAILABLE IN THE CALDICOT AREA.
It is now much cheaper than a few years ago.
INDICATIONS OF HEROIN USE
- A large amount of kitchen foil being purchased or used by a person.
- Metal or non flammable tubes left lying around which possibly contain a dark resinous substance.
- An increase in the use of disposable lighters or lighter fuel.
- Pages or corners ripped from glossy magazines.
- Possibly items or money going missing from the home.
- Persons remaining out all night with no apparent reason.
If any reader has concerns regarding drugs or possible drug use by someone they know, they can contact me for advice.
Finally, don't forget to consider getting those new cycles, skooters etc. post code stamped. Contact me for further details. It may well stop them being stolen in the future.
If you see anything suspicious dial CALDICOT POLICE STATION on 01291-430999. If a crime appears to be taking place, ring 999 immediately.
If your call is not really urgent and you dial 999 don't worry, the police operator will assist you. BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY!
Until next month.
Ashley Turner.
PC 737, Community Police Constable
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