SD23 continues its push on the impacts of vaping on youth

Photo: Contributed

The Central Okanagan School District is keeping up its pressure on government to get tougher when it comes to vaping and youth.

Supt. Kevin Kaardal sent a letter to all parents and guardians in the district warning of the health risks inherent with vaping products.

Kaardal reiterated Health Canada warnings that vaping by youth is unsafe, and that long-term health affects are still not known.

"In addition, even small amounts of the e-juice can be poisonous to a young child if ingested and can be toxic if spilled on the skin," said Kaardal.

"And, nicotine is highly addictive and can have harmful impacts on the brain, affecting memory and concentration in everyone, and brain development in youth and young adults."

Kaardal added it is against the law to sell vaping products to anyone under 19, and that both vaping, and smoking are banned on school property.

"I encourage you to speak with your child or youth to ensure they understand the serious health risks
associated with this activity.

"I believe that in working together we can better educate our youth on the potential harmful consequences of vaping in order to keep them safe and healthy."

Earlier this week, the district's board of education approved sending a letter to each federal candidate asking how they would address the serious danger vaping poses to children.

In the spring, the board urged the BC School Trustees Association to lobby senior levels of government to support tougher regulations on the sale of e-cigarettes and vaping products to minors.