NEWS RELEASE
SAULT STE MARIE POLICE SERVICE
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The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service would like to advise the public that there has been an increase in calls for service regarding possible drug overdoses in Sault Ste. Marie.
Last night, officers with the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service and Paramedics with Sault Ste. Marie Fire Services responded to three separate calls for service regarding overdoses of a substance believed to be heroin in the downtown area of Sault Ste. Marie.
In two of the incidents naloxone, a medication used to block the effects of opioids in overdoses, was successfully administered and the patients were transported to the hospital. [Police confirm that in the third case, the individual did not require naloxone].
Since January of 2017, police and paramedics have responded to 50 calls for service regarding overdoses. Early signs of overdose may include;
- Drowsiness,
- Slow heartrate,
- Trouble with breathing,
- Clammy cold skin, and;
- Trouble walking or talking
Members of the public are reminded of the dangers of opioid use and of the fact that it is often very difficult to know exactly what is contained in illicit narcotics.
Officers with the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service continue to work with our partners at the Drug Strategy Committee so that we may reduce the harm caused by substance abuse in our city.
Friends and family members of persons known to use illicit drugs are encouraged to inform themselves about the availability and use of Naloxone.
Anyone with any questions about how to use or obtain naloxone is asked to contact Desiree Beck, chair of the drug strategy committee at 705 541 2319 or [email protected].
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