In light of a recent increase in the number of overdoses in Prince George, Northern Health is urging residents using or considering using drugs to reconsider or take steps to prevent an overdose.
Northern Health says the recent increase may involve the use of a dark purple substance being sold as “down” or “fentanyl,” and may be referred to as “Fire.”
For your safety:
- Get overdose prevention, recognition, and response training; carry naloxone
- Don’t use alone. Make a plan and tell a buddy who can call for help if needed
- If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard or BeSafe app available free on the app store or on Toward the Heart website
- Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less
- Don’t mix drugs or mix drugs with alcohol
- Test a small amount first and go slow
- Use in an OPS if possible (Needle Exchange or Two Doors Down)
- Access fentanyl drug checking where available (OPS sites)
- Call 911 or your local emergency number right away if someone ODs
Prince George Overdose Prevention Sites (OPS):
- Needle Exchange at 1108 Third Ave, Mon-Sat, 1-6pm
- Two Doors Down at 1126 Third Ave, Tues-Sun, 6-11 am and 6-11 pm
The alert will stay in effect until July 5.