Interior Heath is issuing a DRUG OVERDOSE ALERT for Nelson, Trail, Castlegar, Creston and surrounding area due to increased toxic drug overdoses and deaths. This is reported to have impacted experienced substance users.
Be aware of safer drug use tips that can help prevent overdose as well as where to access naloxone, drug checking and other overdose prevention services.
No matter what or how you use (smoking, snorting, injecting) take steps to prevent overdose
- Check your drugs before using! Whether using take home fentanyl test strips or accessing FTIR technicians in your area, drug checking can inform you about what is in your drugs. Drug Checking services found at www.drugchecking.ca
- Use one person at a time so someone can respond to overdose if needed
- Use with others around
- Smoking is not safer than injecting, be cautious when smoking your drugs
- Know the risks when mixing drugs
- When using your substance start with a small amount, and then go slow.
- Know the signs of an overdose and be prepared with naloxone. Find out where to get naloxone on the ‘Towards the Heart’ website, under ‘Find a site’.
- If you must use while alone, consider using the Lifeguard app which can connect you with 911 emergency responders if you overdose. Download at the App Store or Google Play.
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