‘Juuling’ has Warren County Public Schools concerned about student health
While a new device called ‘Juul’ sounds harmless, it’s actually a brand of e-cigarette that has quickly grown in popularity since it first appeared on the market in 2015.
The ‘Juul’ has become popular among youth and young adults, but local school officials in Warren County are concerned about student health
“We want to get the word out to parents and educate them that it is out there and what they can do about it.” says Todd Hazel, the Director of Student Services for Warren County Public Schools.
Unlike most e-cigarettes, the small, sleek device looks similar to a USB flash drive.
“Students can conceal that in backpacks, in their coat pockets, jeans pocket, wherever they want to conceal that and I think that is the reason for the increase because it is more concealable.” adds Hazel.
The ‘Juul’ contains a pod of liquid that contains more than double the amount of nicotine found in other e-cigarettes. The liquid pods come in a variety of fruity flavors that appeal to many, including teens.
The school district recently sent parents an email informing them about the device and the potential dangers.
The email is below:
"WCPS Community, In an effort to deliver on our commitment of ensuring student safety, we strive to keep parents informed of any potential risks that could negatively impact a child’s safety or his/her personal well-being. With that in mind, we would like to educate parents about a new trend among teenagers called Juuling. According to the Academy of American Pediatrics, Juuling is the practice of using E-Cigarettes to inhale large quantities of nicotine."
One local parent says communication is key.
“I talk to my kids about it, I talk to their friends about it, so they are aware of what is going on and I know from them that it is going on in the schools here.” says Katharina Cisco, a concerned parent.
The Warren County Sheriff’s Office says they have seen an increase in ‘Juuls’ among high school students.
“I spoke recently to one of my school resource officers who has recently confiscated two, I think, in the last week. So, it is here, so instead of trying to pretend it’s not, we want to get in front of this and try to combat it the best we can for the safety of the children.” says Captain Curtis Hargett, with the Warren County Sheriff’s Office.
