THE Hampshire and Isle of Wight Youth Commission are warning of the dangers of legal highs.

Legal highs, or new psychoactive substances, have similar effects to illegal drugs like cocaine or cannabis. They can cause serious physical and mental illness and even death.

In Hampshire, these substances have contributed to fatal road incidents.

Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Hayes said: “It’s important we highlight the dangers of legal highs. With the number of deaths related to these substances increasing year on year, a clear message needs to be sent out that that just because these substances are being sold as legal it doesn’t mean they are safe.

“If you have taken these substances, do not drive as you will be putting yourself and others at risk.”

Youth commission spokesman Louis Faith said: “I feel that new psychoactive substances are more of a gateway drug than any another substance. There are so many different types and just a small amount could harm your body because of all the bad chemicals they contain. I hope the Lethal Highs campaign will discourage young people from taking them.”

The campaign aims to raise awareness about what new psychoactive substances are and the risks associated with taking them, so people can make informed choices.

For more details, follow #lethalhighs on Twitter.