Northern Health is issuing a toxic drug alert for Prince George. The health authority says there has been an increase in overdoses in the city linked to a grey drug sold as “down”.
The substance contains high levels of sedatives and tested positive for benzodiazepines and fentanyl. Drug responses includes black out, prolonged sedation, and memory loss.
Northern Health has included the following recommendations for drug users:
- Get overdose prevention, recognition, and response training; carry naloxone
- Try not to 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, start low and go slow
- Use in an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) if possible (see Prince George locations listed below)
- Get your drugs checked at Two Doors Down (Hours: 4 days a week, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. Closed Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays)
- Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses
Local overdose prevention site (OPS)
- Two Doors Down, 1126 3rd Ave, Prince George, BC
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. - Northern Health Needle Exchange and Harm Reduction Clinic (OPS/APP), 277 George St, Prince George, BC
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
