The OPP and local police forces are working to address the increasing trend of emergency department visits, hospitalizations and deaths related to opioid use across Ontario and Grey Bruce.
The OPP and area police forces are teaming up with the Grey Bruce Health Unit to support opioid awareness during summer R.I.D.E. checks.
Beginning on the Victoria Day long weekend and continuing throughout the summer, police services will be distributing opioid awareness cards during area R.I.D.E. checks.
The cards contain valuable life-saving information such as the names for common opioids, the signs of an overdose and what do in the event someone may be having a suspected opioid overdose. The cards will also explain what Naloxone can do in the event of a suspected opioid overdose and offer resources for additional information and support.
Currently, one person dies every ten hours from an opioid overdose in Ontario.
In addition to area R.I.D.E. checks, the cards will also be distributed at community events attended and supported by local law enforcement agencies and EMS.