Toxic drug alert issued for Northern Interior

PRINCE GEORGE — A toxic drug alert has been issued for the Northern Interior, including Prince George.

Northern Health says it’s led to an increase in overdoses, with the drugs causing heavy and prolonged sedation requiring medical intervention. The reported substances involved are meth.

For your safety

• Get overdose prevention, recognition, and response training; carry naloxone
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away, if someone overdoses and remember to provide rescue breaths
• 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
• When possible, avoid mixing drugs or mixing drugs with alcohol
• Test a small amount first and go slow
• Use in an OPS if possible (see Fort St. John options listed below)
• Access fentanyl drug checking where available (OPS sites)