Police have issued a stark health warning after 18 laughing gas canisters were seized. 

Officers in Poole have warned that nitrous oxide (NOS) can lead to paralysis in the worst-case scenario. 

The county force had seized 18 cans from an address in Poole on Sunday afternoon (December 3). 

Giving a warning, it said NOS is now classed as a class C drug meaning it is illegal to have, give away or sell. 

Possession can land culprits two years in prison as well as an unlimited fine, however, supplying can lead to up to 14 years in prison. 

A spokesperson for Poole Police said: “Like drink-driving, driving when high is dangerous and illegal. 

“If you’re caught driving under the influence, you may receive a heavy fine, driving ban, or prison sentence. 

“It is very dangerous to inhale nitrous oxide directly from the canister and doing it in an enclosed space is also very dangerous.  

“If you take too much nitrous oxide you risk falling unconscious and/or suffocating from the lack of oxygen. People have died this way. 

“Heavy regular use of nitrous oxide can lead to a B12 deficiency and to a form of anaemia.  

“Severe B12 deficiency can lead to serious nerve damage, causing tingling and numbness in the fingers and toes.  

“This can be very painful and make walking difficult. It can even lead to paralysis, and the damage may be lasting.”