The Grey-Bruce Health Unit is promoting it's free Naloxone kits.
With the report of the deadly carfentanil being found in Owen Sound recently, the health unit is trying to prevent fatal drug overdoses.
Naloxone will temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Opioids include drugs like morphine, fentanyl and carfentanil.
Carfentanil can be fatal in very tiny dos , and is far more potent than fentanyl or morphine. It's been confirmed in two recent investigations by the Owen Sound Police Service.
Naloxone kits are available at the Grey Bruce Health Unit Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm. No appointment is necessary. It's also available from some local pharmacies.
An overdose is a medical emergency and it's important that 911 is called during a suspected overdose as Naloxone is very fast-acting once given. A person that has overdosed and treated with Naloxone is at high risk of going back into an overdose and needs medical attention.
Signs of an opioid overdose are soft breathing or no breathing; snoring or gurgling sounds; pinpoint pupils; blue lips, nails, or skin; cold clammy skin; limp body; and no response to shouting.
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose.