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Drug poisoning and overdose alert issued for West Kootenay region

Interior Health reports multiple fatal and non-fatal drug poisonings in Trail, Nelson, Castlegar
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Interior Heath has issued an overdose alert for the West Kootenay. If someone has overdosed, administering naloxone can help. (Jenna Hauck/The Progress file photo)

Interior Health (IH) has issued a drug poisoning and overdose alert for the West Kootenay Region.

IH says there have been numerous fatal and non-fatal drug poisonings, specifically in Nelson, Castlegar and Trail.

IH adds that no matter how or if someone is using, they always need to take steps to prevent overdose.

This includes the following:

- Know the risks when mixing drugs

- If you must use while alone, consider using the Lifeguard app which can connect you with 911 emergency responders if you overdose.

- Start with a small amount, and then go slow.

- Use with others or at an overdose prevention or supervised consumption site, if one is near you. Have your drugs checked by visiting a drug testing site like ANKORS.

- Know how to respond to an overdose - call 911, give rescue breaths and naloxone.

If someone is experiencing an overdose or is witnessing an overdose, call 911 immediately.

At least 1,095 people in B.C. died of toxic drug overdoses between January and June of this year — the highest number ever recorded in the first six months of a calendar year.

READ: Moms Stop the Harm planning overdose awareness events across B.C.

READ: Breaking the law to provide safe drugs? Nelson advocate says it should be considered



Corey Bullock

About the Author: Corey Bullock

Corey Bullock is a multimedia journalist and writer who grew up in Burlington, Ontario.
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