CBS47 is On Your Side with a warning about the new way kids are getting drunk.
It's a trend known as "smoking or inhaling" alcohol and doctors say it puts kids over the edge... and can kill.
CBS47’s Lemor Abrams is live at Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno with more on the deadly trend.
Every year, about 80,000 people in the United States die from drinking too much.
Doctors warn, smoking alcohol could cause poisoning a lot faster than sipping it.
It isn't a science experiment.
These are teens and college kids smoking or inhaling alcohol…and posting their experience online.
Local first responders say more and more are ending up in the emergency room.
“It's just a faster response than drinking alcohol,” said Fresno Fire Captain Gregg Skaggs.
Usually they pour the alcohol over dry ice, and inhale the vapor.
Doctors say it goes straight into the brain and bloodstream, and the body can't handle it.
“It’s bypassing the stomach and the liver which is where alcohol is normally broken down into less toxic form, and the problem with that is it can lead to alcohol poisoning,” said CBS47 Medical Expert Dr. Giatri Dave.
Those doing it say it gives them a buzz, without the calories of drinking alcohol.
It's known as drunkorexia.
“I don't understand that I mean anorexia is so horrible...I don't know,” said local mom Liz Allegra.
Mom thinks parents should start communicating better with kids.
This youth pastor explains, it's part of society.
“We all feel like we want to belong and when we don't...they feel like I just need to escape,” said Youth Pastor Brandon Blumberg.
Sadly, sometimes this escape is permanent.
Getting Help:
Some of the signs of alcohol poisoning include vomiting, confusion, and shortness of breath.
Doctors say if there is any suspicion of alcohol overdose, call 911.
Don't try to guess how drunk someone is.