PARENTS are being urged to warn young people about the dangers of getting a high off gas canisters, after dozens of them turned up in Ascot parks.

The canisters contain nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, which whips up the cream in instant coffee.

According to the drugs awareness charity FRANK, nitrous oxide can cause dizziness or affect your judgement, which might make a person act carelessly or dangerously or cause them to self-harm, particularly in an unsafe environment.

Too much of the substance can lead to fainting, having an accident or something far more serious.

Though no one has yet been killed in Ascot by laughing gas, officials are concerned the likelihood of a fatality is increasing.

In 2012, 17 year-old Joseph Benett from London died after inhaling the gas with his friends.

Cllr Lynda Yong, representing Sunningdale and South Ascot, believed families should be more alert to the risks of gas canisters.

She said: "I think parents should be aware that young people are using these items that can be found in most people's kitchens.

"Ever increasing numbers of canisters are found in our parks and for safety, parents should consider them under lock and key."

It is illegal to supply or import nitrous oxide for human consumption, under the terms of the Psychoactive Substances Act.

For friendly and confidential advice about drugs, contact FRANK on 0300 123 6600.