Safer Smoking

At WHCP, we believes that all individuals who use drugs should have free access to supplies that will keep them healthy and disease-free; we provide safer smoking supplies for individuals who use crack-cocaine.

Stem Tips- Used at the end of the crack pipe. A hot stem can burn and crack the lips which can cause bleeding. Coming in contact with even small amounts of blood can put you at risk for HIV and HCV, in fact research has shown that Hepatitis C can be transmitted through crack pipes. It’s always best to use your own rubber stem tip!

Chore Boy- Used inside a crack pipe. Copper Chore Boy is much better than fine steel wool that can release carcinogens and also become brittle and easily inhaled.

Gum- Used to help preserve tooth enamel as smoking crack reduces saliva production, hurts teeth enamel and nerve endings which may lead to tooth decay. Sugar-free gum containing Xylitol will help keep saliva production up and may prevent tooth decay.

Antibiotic Ointment- Use antibiotic ointment on any cuts, scrapes, or burns, can also be used as lip balm to keep your lips moist and in turn less likely to get cracked and chapped.

Alcohol Pads- If you have to share a pipe, these can be used to clean off the pipe to prevent possible bacterial transmission.

Bandage- Used to cover and protect any sores, cuts, or burns.

Download WHCP’s
Safer Smoking Kit Pamphlet

Community Outreach, Resources, Needle Exchange and (H)arm Reduction • Copyright © 2010