An overdose alert has been issued in Grey and Bruce counties after four non-fatal opioid overdoses within a 24 hour period.
According to Grey Bruce Public Health, some overdoses did take place within the City of Owen Sound, and "preliminary reports indicate a substance identified as Fentanyl that is purple in color is responsible".
More than 3 overdoses in a 24 hour period triggers an alert.
Those that use street drugs are urged to take extra caution.
How to take extra caution: -Avoid using drugs alone. When using with someone else, avoid using at the same time. Call the OVERDOSE PREVENTION LINE at 1-888-688-6677 (NORS) if you must use alone -Avoid mixing different drugs. Mixing drugs, including alcohol, increases the risk of overdose -Go slow. Use smaller amounts and do test doses to check the strength of the drug -Know your tolerance. The current street supply may be toxic and fatal -Get overdose prevention training and carry a Naloxone kit
An overdose is a medical emergency. Call 9-1-1 immediately, or go to an Emergency Department.
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides protection from simple possession charges when 9-1-1 is called for an overdose
Naloxone is available for free from pharmacies, and at the Grey Bruce Health Unit (Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., no appointment needed).
Mental Health Crisis Lines of Grey-Bruce: 1-877-470-5200 ConnexOntario: 1-866-531-2600 Rapid Access Addiction Medicine Clinic: 519-376-3999
