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UK: 420 'smoke out': Why you might smell cannabis across Somerset today - despite lockdown rules Ellie Kendall Somerset Live Saturday 18 Apr 2020 It's that time of year again when cannabis users normally join others across the world for a mass "smoke out" in the West Country. The gathering is to celebrate 420 - a code-term for consumption that specifically refers to smoking the drug at 4.20pm on April 20 (written as 4/20 in US date form). While cannabis enthusiasts across Somerset often partake in these 420 rituals, one of the biggest known events around here is held at Bristol's Castle Park. But with current coronavirus lockdown rules banning mass gatherings completely, what will this mean for those who would normally attend the event? Could this mean you may start smelling cannabis a lot closer to home at the stated time? What is the 420 gathering all about? It is inspired by a code the police used for 'Marijuana Smoking in Progress' in late 70s San Rafael, California. When locals heard the police call, they began using the term when referring to the drug. The 'celebration' has since grown into an occasion marked with protests, parties and rallies, with people gathering to smoke the drug and push for it to be legalised. You may spot '420' on dating sites as a way to show potential suitors someone is '420 friendly' or even in business names to show a discreet link to the drug. Coronavirus rules on gatherings The government has issued guidelines while the country is on lockdown which only allows Brits to leave their homes for the following reasons: To travel to/from work if you are a key worker or are unable to work from home To shop for essential groceries and medicine To care for elderly or vulnerable people For one form of exercise per day Police have started to crack down on anyone flouting these rules, including people gathering in large groups with others not from within their household. You could now face a hefty fine if you're caught flouting lockdown rules and the government is set to extend the UK's lockdown period for a further three weeks beyond this weekend. Avon and Somerset Police has launched a form which enables concerned residents to report any individual or business in the area they believe may be flouting lockdown rules. Could this event take place anyway? There has been concern in recent weeks over what appear to be large numbers of people flouting the lockdown rules and not following social distancing guidelines. A number of forces have thanked the majority of people who abided by the rules over the scorching Easter break, but there were a number of people across the UK who could not resist trips to the beach and other public areas. In the build-up to Easter, Avon and Somerset Police warned that people could face fines if they breach the rules and reminded people that 60 penalties had been issued up to April 8. Deputy chief constable Sarah Crew said: “Communities in Avon and Somerset in their masses comply with the guidance that’s there. “In a tiny proportion of cases, we have the ability to use the new regulations to issue a fine." So while more and more people appear to be getting used to the rules, there is a chance some could attempt the 420 smoke-out in Castle Park, perhaps keeping their distance from each other? There is the potential, as there always is, for gatherings in areas less prominent. However, people may hold their own 420 celebrations at home. Is cannabis legal in the UK? Cannabis is illegal for recreational use in the UK and is, in fact, classified as a Class B drug, meaning you could face up to five years in prison and/or an unlimited fine for simply possessing it. If you're caught growing or selling the drug, you can even face up to 14 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine. What effects would smoking cannabis have on your chances of catching coronavirus? Though cannabis is known to relieve stress and make users feel relaxed and rather chilled out (which could be ideal in such uncertain times) it can also have some long-term side effects. Cannabis can make you feel dizzy, sick, tired and can even affect your memory. Experts have also raised concerns about a higher risk of psychotic illness and exacerbating existing mental health issues. As it is most commonly smoked, the impact on your respiratory system especially throughout the coronavirus crisis could be devastating. Experts say that smoking marijuana, even on occasion, can increase your risk of developing more severe complications as a result of coronavirus, similar to smoking cigarettes or vaping. It may also mean your body has to fight much harder to combat the disease and can also impact those around you, who may breathe in some of the fumes from the drug accidentally. https://www.somersetlive.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/coronavirus-lockdown-cannabis-somerset-420-4048244
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