The Huron County OPP are launching a new drug overdose awareness campaign.
In a release, Huron County OPP says they are partnering with local community partners to promote the new campaign with the goal of increasing awareness about the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act.
The act provides "some legal protection for individuals who seek help during an overdose, even if the person has taken drugs or has drugs on them."
Police say that many overdose deaths are preventable, but many deaths occur because people involved are afraid to call police because they are scared of legal consequences. The campaign will also encourage people to get naloxone kits, which could help save someone suffering from an overdose until emergency responders arrive.
Huron County OPP share in the release that since 2016 they have responded to almost 150 calls for drug overdoses with 14 of those resulting in fatalities.
"The impact of the opioid crisis continues to be devastating to individuals, families and our communities as a whole," said Jason Younan, Huron County OPP Detachment Commander. "We are hopeful that this awareness campaign will help remind and reinforce the message that if you see an overdose, call 9-1-1, seek life-saving assistance and stay with the victim. Don't be afraid - the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act can protect you"
"If you, or someone you know, uses opioids we strongly encourage you to pick up a free Naloxone kit," said Michelle Carter, Public Health Nurse with Huron Perth Public Health.
"Using substances alone can be deadly. Naloxone is only temporary; it is important that if an overdose occurs you call 9-1-1, and stay with the person until help arrives."