SCHOOLS in south Essex were forced to dial 999 after pupils became “dangerously unwell” after using vapes, it has been revealed. 

A joint letter from all secondary headteachers in this part of the region was sent at the close of term to “raise awareness” of current concerns.

The letter, seen by the Echo, said more than one school had called for an ambulance after pupils became unwell. 

It comes as schools have been working with Essex County Council and the police to tackle the rise in both popularity and accessibility of vapes in establishments.

In the letter, it said: “We can share with you that more than one school in the area has had to call an ambulance this term for students who have become dangerously unwell after using a vape containing THC and Spice.

“Young people are often using vapes which have been handed to them by other people, and they are not questioning or checking what the vape contains nor can they check or see the ingredients.

“To vape using someone else’s vape pen is extremely dangerous – they simply do not know what they are using, and it is therefore extremely risky.

“Whilst all of our schools have clear behaviour policy regarding drug taking and policies which follow DfE guidelines, we want to strengthen our message to parents and students.

“Keeping our students safe is always our first priority, and it is important that home and school work together in partnership, to remain vigilant and educate our students in how to avoid unsafe, risk-taking behaviours.”

According to a 2021 study, nearly one in 10 children aged between 11 and 18 have tried vaping products and about half of those regularly use vapes.

It follows an investigation by Southend Liberal Democrats on March 12 that showed brightly coloured and sweet-flavoured e-cigarettes are enticing the city’s teenagers and putting them at risk of nicotine addiction.

It also found that large displays in supermarkets show a wide array of the sweetly flavoured vapes next to food, drinks and newspapers.

Paul Collins, Liberal Democrat Eastwood Park ward councillor, said: “The way vapes are sold needs review and Liberal Democrats are right to stand up on this issue, which could cause health problems for our young people now and in their futures.”