Police have encouraged businesses in possession of nitrous oxide to keep gas canisters safe and secure after a recent burglary.

Gobowen’s Orthopaedic Hospital was targeted by thieves in the early hours of Friday, September 27.

Five cannisters of the gas, more commonly known as laughing gas, were stolen from a secure storage building on the hospital premises.

Padlocks were cut and the doors were forced open before thieves made away with the gas, classified as a psychoactive substance, which is illegal to sell or give away.

There is no penalty for possession; however supply and production of nitrous oxide can be punishable with a sentence of up to seven years in prison.

Sergeant Scott Barnes, of Oswestry and North Shropshire Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNT), has warned people of the effects it can have if it is consumed as a drug.

“People should be aware of the risks of this gas,” he said. “It is used medically as sedation and pain relief in a controlled environment.

“To inhale it in an uncontrolled environment and straight from the canister is very dangerous.

“It can cause you to become unconscious and, if consumed in a confined space, can cause a lack of oxygen.

“Other effects include dizziness, which can cause careless and dangerous behaviour. It has potential to cause a person to faint or have an accident.

“Regular inhalation of the gas can have negative effects on your body’s vital organs.

“By using the gas as a drug, you are not only putting yourself at risk of injury, but you are also at risk of becoming a victim of crime yourself because you are not aware of your surroundings.”

Inspector Tracy Ryan, also of Oswestry SNT, wants to encourage those in possession of the gas to make sure it is safe and secure.

She said: “This type of theft isn’t something just affecting this area, it’s happened all over the country.

“People who are in possession of nitrous oxide are normally aware of how it should be stored, but people should be making sure now that they are keeping it safe and secure.

“On this occasion, the suspect has been arrested and released on bail pending further enquiries. Anybody storing it should review their safety procedures and ensure they have secure measures in place.”

There was a second attempted burglary at a hospital premises in Longden Road, Shrewsbury, but the gas room was empty.

Anyone with information about the incident should call 101 quoting 0160s 270919.