Community forums are scheduled for the coming days, focusing on the use of bath salts and other dangerous synthetic drugs. The Onondaga County Health Department will host an event tomorrow, while Crouse Hospital will host an event next Thursday. Our Brad Vivacqua reports.

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ONONDAGA COUNTY, N.Y. -- These forums are a result of the recent spike in the use of bath salts and other synthetic drugs. The event at OCC is geared toward law enforcement representatives, first responders, school officials, as well as the general public.

The goal of the forum is to develop a plan of action to combat bath salts usage and the violence that often ensues.

Another forum will be held at Crouse Hospital next week, explaining what these drugs are, their history, and some of the side effects.

Dr. Elizabeth Berry, a clinical psychologist at Crouse, will discuss how parents may be able to detect the signs and symptoms of these highly addictive substances.

"These drugs have hit this community full force, like an epidemic. I think our purpose is to make people aware of how harmful and toxic these drugs are. With the hopes that people will make an informed consent, and informed decision not to use these drugs," said Dr. Berry.

According to SUNY Upstate Online, the Upstate New York Poison Center has received close to 300 calls regarding bath salts this year.

Both of the informational sessions are free. The one at Onondaga Community College will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday in the Storer Auditorium. Pre-registration is required by calling (315) 471-1359.

The forum at Crouse Hospital will take place next Thursday, July 26th, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Marley Education Center on Irving Avenue. Although capacity has been reached, there is a waiting list. You can call (315) 472-2464.

It's hopeful these forums can help in the effort to inform the public how dangerous these drugs are.