Northern Health and First Nations Health Authority have issued a toxic drug alert for Prince George.
As of Jan 6, the Health Authorities are reporting an increase in sudden overdose events in the city. The substances consumed are causing prolonged sedation, requiring multiple doses of naloxone to reverse. Overdoses are occurring when substance are smoked or injected.
They also note that substance move throughout the region and may be present in surrounding communities.
In Prince George, Overdose Prevention Sites are located at Two Doors Down, 1126 Third Ave which is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. and then from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Northern Health Needle Exchange and Harm Reduction Clinic open from Monday to Saturday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Tips for drug-use safety include:
- Get overdose prevention, recognition, and response training; carry naloxone
- Don’t use alone. Make a plan and tell a buddy who can call for help if needed
- If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard or BeSafe app available free on the app store or on Toward the Heart website
- Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less
- When possible, avoid mixing drugs or mixing drugs with alcohol
- Test a small amount first and go slow
- Use in an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS)
- Get your drugs checked at Two Doors Down (6 days a week, 10 am to 2 pm Wednesday to Saturday, and 4 pm to 8 pm Tuesday to Sunday, closed Mondays; Appointments can be made outside these hours by texting or calling 250-301-3285)
- Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses
