Deadly Teen Trend: What Parents Need to Know About ‘Dusting’
The family of Renna Kay O’Rourke, a teenager from Tempe, Arizona, is sharing their heartbreaking story after Renna tragically died from a dangerous substance abuse trend known as “dusting”, inhaling chemicals from aerosol cans like keyboard cleaners.
Her parents hope to prevent another family from facing the same tragedy. “We want to make sure that we use our tragedy so that no other parent has to experience looking at their child on life support… because she huffed out of a can,” said Dana O’Rourke.
What Is Dusting?
Dusting is a type of inhalant abuse where teens inhale chemicals from common household products such as:
- Keyboard dusters
- Whipped cream canisters
- Spray paint
- Paint thinners
- Glue
This results in a brief euphoric high, but the consequences can be deadly. Renna and her boyfriend even had the product delivered to her home via DoorDash.
Why It’s So Dangerous
- Can cause heart failure, breathing problems, and sudden death
- Risk of frostbite from the freezing gas
- May lead to long-term brain and organ damage
- Even one-time use can be fatal
Low Awareness, High Risk
Experts say many teens don’t realize how dangerous dusting is. According to addiction counselors, “As the perception of risk decreases, the likelihood of use increases.”
Addictive Potential
While not physically addictive like opioids, dusting can lead to psychological dependence. Teens may chase the short-lived high again and again, sometimes using 20+ cans per day.
Signs Your Child May Be Dusting
- Empty or missing aerosol cans
- Chemical odors on clothes or breath
- Slurred speech or glazed eyes
- Unexplained burns or frostbite on the face or hands
- Mood swings, irritability, or signs of depression
What Parents Can Do
- Be open and discuss with your children about substances, including household products
- Ask what they’ve seen or heard about dusting
- Avoid fear tactics; stick to facts and consequences
- Secure household products or keep them out of reach
- Reinforce that “just because it’s household, doesn’t mean it’s safe”
If your child is feeling overwhelmed, don’t wait; seek help. Reach out to a school counselor, addiction specialist, or helpline for support.
