Chatham-Kent health unit warns of increase in drug overdoses
The Windsor Police Service also issued a warning recently after attending three overdoses in 24 hours
The Chatham-Kent health unit is warning of a rise in drug overdoses and unexpected reactions to substances in the Chatham-Kent area.
And they are reminding people that the unregulated drug supply is unpredictable and always changing.
"Substances may not be what individuals expect, increasing the risk of harm or death," officials said in a news release issued Thursday by CK Public Health.
It's the second warning about an increase in overdoses issued in the past two weeks.
The Windsor Police Service responded to three suspected opioid overdoses in a span of 24 hours on July 29, the service wrote on X.com.
That included one fatal overdose.
Anyone who witnesses a suspected overdose should call 911, administer naloxone and remain with the person until paramedics arrive, CK Public Health said.
Drug users urged to take precautions
Anyone using substances should avoid using alone and, if using with others, take turns spotting each other.
They can also call a supervised consumption line like the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677, the police service said.
"Always carry naloxone – it can reverse an opioid overdose and save a life," police said.
"Know the signs of an opioid overdose – slow or no breathing, blue lips or fingertips, unresponsiveness."
People using drugs should have a safety plan in place, such as asking people to check on them, leaving their doors unlocked, and checking their drugs with test strips, the health unit said.
They also should do a test dose, start at a low dose and consume drugs slowly.
In addition, they should be aware of their tolerance, know the quality of their drugs and avoid mixing drugs.
"Ask others about what they are experiencing with the current drug supply," the health unit wrote in the news release.
"Share this warning to help raise awareness and reduce the risk of drug poisonings."