New website to tackle ice

A website, accessed via www.understandice.org.au, has been launched.

New statistics show an increase in the number of ambulance attendances to ice-related incidents across the state.

In 2011-12, paramedics received 94 ice-related call-outs in regional areas of Victoria, with that number rising to 467 in 2014-15.

In the Warrnambool City municipality, the number of incidents has fluctuated.

In 2012-13, the number of ice-related ambulance call-outs was six but that climbed to 11 in 2013-14.

The 2014-15 statistics had the trend decreasing, with nine call-outs.

There have been no recorded incidents in Moyne Shire since 2011-12.

The Penington Institution created the new website, which is designed for use on a smart phone.

Penington Institute chief executive John Ryan said the new website aimed to find ways to educate the community about ice.

“The site’s information is easy to understand and highlights practical actions including links to health services,” Mr Ryan said.

“It aims to reduce the fear and anxiety for families and friends.

“Many parents are at their wits end. For parents and friends, our main message is: Don’t freak out.

“Use the tips in the website as a conversation starter at the right time. It’s a really useful first step towards open and honest conversations.”

Medical advisor to the project, Shaun Greene, is an emergency physician and clinical toxicologist. He is also medical director of the Victorian Poisons Information Centre at Austin Health.

Dr Greene said that the new website took an early intervention approach.

“This is not a ‘just say no’ campaign – but nor is the site condoning ice use,” Dr Greene said.

“We know that ice is a growing problem for young people – that’s a fact.

“However, we also know that the potential harms from ice use can be reduced by young people taking a few simple steps – eating well, resting up, looking after their general health and being aware when their ice use is having a negative impact on their lives.

“The site includes information about the warning signs that a young person’s ice use is becoming a problem.”