Spike in overdoses prompts warning from AHS

Alberta Health Services has issued a warning after what it calls a spike in opioid overdose calls in Grande Prairie over the weekend.
 
AHS says in a release there have been 20 overdose calls since Saturday night. One person in Grande Prairie died.
 
AHS is urging anyone who takes street drugs to be extra careful.
 
“If you are going to use drugs, never use alone; always have at least one other person present. Have a naloxone kit available and someone who can administer it. And in the event of a suspected overdose, call 911 immediately,” says Rob Barone, Associate Executive Director with AHS EMS in a news release.
 
That same release says pharmacies, community clinics, and the emergency department at the QE II all have naloxone kits.
 
There is also addiction help available through the Northern Addiction Centre. or through the Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322. That line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.