One other risk of nitrous oxide — fire accelerant
Re: “A common sight at concerts, nitrous oxide abuse is soaring,” Aug. 6 news story
I appreciated your in-depth report on the expanding recreational use of nitrous oxide inhalation at Red Rocks and other concert venues. The health hazards were accurately described, as was the ready availability of this ― what some label innocuous ― gas for cheap thrills, just to get that “Whomp-Whomp.”
In the 1970s, at an engineering university, I experienced firsthand parties powered by pilfered cylinders of nitrous oxide, N2O (N-Twenty as we ChemE geeks called it), and can attest that the article overlooked one major hazard. This stuff is a powerful oxidizer that, while not flammable by itself, will accelerate and intensify combustion of rubber balloons, clothing, hair, skin, eye tissue and other things that burn when used around open flames such as bongs, joints, and cigarettes. N2O is used by street racers to improve horsepower by increasing available oxygen; just add fuel and a spark to burn hotter, faster.
A common sight at concerts, nitrous oxide abuse is soaring, prompting health concerns
In a darkened room illuminated by the cherry glow of joints, I witnessed a N2O-filled balloon explode, resulting in serious burns and eye injuries to a friend. The smell of burnt flesh, eyelashes, brows and bangs took us all by surprise. Now that’s a buzzkill, kids. Party over. Replaced by a trip to the ER, where I got to explain what happened. Later, I heard of other similar mishaps, all preventable. Nothing new here, party at your own risk.
Robert Carrier, Erie
Why aren’t we talking about the scourge of plastics?
Re: “What is the goal of U.S. being present at plastic treaty talks?” Aug. 9 news story
I have been an advocate of recycling for years and I remain disappointed and surprised that no one seems to really care about the plastic dilemma we are facing. I think getting the word out with public service reminders and updates on the progress being made would be a good start.
Tell us how it works. Is the plastic really getting recycled?
Are there other steps we can take, like restaurants should provide only cardboard take-home containers? How about a “plastic tax” on some containers? Why not limit the sale of plastic water bottles to no less than 22 or 32 ounces? It would be great if I could take my empty laundry detergent bottles back to the store and have them refilled from a 50-gallon drum. It’s the same story with vehicle lubricants, washer fluid bottles, gallon jugs, etc. How about a $5 refundable deposit. It would sure assist the homeless and unemployed with a job that pays something. Come on people, let’s do something!
Bill Diemert, Highlands Ranch
Democrats need to a 2026 Contract with America
In 1994, Newt Gingrich developed with other Republicans the “Contract with America.” It laid out Republican’s legislative promises to the country. As a result, the Republicans won a sweeping election victory, turning the U.S. House Republican for the first time in 40 years. If the Democrats want to win in 2026, they need a new Contract with America. One that listens to and addresses voters’ needs as expressed by voters, not pundits, and the promise to send legislation to Trump all within its first 100 days. Make it big, make it beautiful, and make it serve the voters: Latino, Black, and White whose votes they lost in 2024.
Louis Kolker, Lakewood
Cure the sting of Rockies’ losses with free beer
Dick and Charlie Monfort are missing a golden opportunity to increase attendance at their sandlot-league games. There wouldn’t be an empty seat if every time the visiting team scored 7 or more runs, we got a free beer.
Jeffrey Stroh, Denver
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