Haliburton Highlands OPP would like to make the public aware that there has been an increase in drug overdoses over the past week.
Last week officers of the Haliburton Highlands detachment attended five drug overdoses, sadly, one resulting in death. So far in 2021 the Haliburton Highlands Detachment have investigated four drug related deaths, which is an increase from the 2020 year, when two drug related deaths were investigated.
The OPP reminds citizens that it is dangerous to use non-prescription drugs from unregulated sources. If you or someone you know is planning to use, please take these steps to reduce the risk of an overdose:
- Make sure someone is aware of when and where you plan to use drugs
- Be aware of the dose that you are consuming
- Have a naloxone kit available in case of an overdose
The OPP encourage the public to always call 911 immediately if you or anyone else you are with is experiencing an overdose. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which was enacted in 2017, provides some legal protection for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose. The law provides protection against charges for possessing drugs and violating conditions of a court order for a simple drug possession charge.
When an overdose is occurring the person should be given naloxone immediately after calling 911. Naloxone is a medication that temporarily reverses an overdose by blocking the effects of an overdose. The effects of the medication are usually quick, however, they are not long lasting so medical attention should be sought immediately. To find where you can get a naloxone kit please visit www.ontario.ca/page/getnaloxone-kits-free.