KAWARTHA LAKES-The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has been recently tasked to investigate a number of drug-related incidents in our communities.
Although responding officers are trained in the use of Naloxone and have the on-scene support of area Paramedics and Fire Services, not all lives can be saved in these incidents. Police say addiction to opioids, and especially the use of fentanyl, is an urgent public health situation in our communities.
To encourage people to seek life-saving assistance, the OPP is reminding citizens of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act (GSDOA). The GSDOA provides some legal protection for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose, including the person experiencing an overdose.
The Act is meant to protect the person who seeks help, whether they stay or leave the overdose scene before help arrives, as well as anyone else who is at the scene when help arrives. Resources, as well as other additional information about the GSDOA, can be found by visiting: www.opp.ca/overdose
The OPP says it is upholding its commitment to the Ontario Mobilization and Engagement Model of Community Policing and is using a collaborative approach to help disseminate this public awareness campaign. Numerous OPP detachments are partnering with other organizations in their community to help the OPP better connect with those directly impacted by this Act.
The GSDOA does provide protection against charges for:
- Possessing drugs for your own use; and
- Violating conditions of your parole, bail, probation or conditional sentence for simple drug possession charge.
The GSDOA does not provide protection against charges for:
- Trafficking illegal drugs;
- Offences other than drug possession;
- Any outstanding arrest warrants; and
- Violating conditions of your parole, bail, probation or conditional sentence for an offence that is not simple possession.
What is naloxone?
Naloxone is a fast-acting drug used to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone can restore breathing within 2 to 5 minutes.
Why does naloxone work only temporarily?
Naloxone is active in the body for only 20 to 90 minutes, but the effects of most opioids can last longer. This means that the effects of naloxone could wear off before the opioids are gone from the body, which could cause breathing to stop again. Naloxone may need to be used again, depending on the amount, type or method of consumption of the opioids (e.g. oral, injection).
Is naloxone safe for everyone?
Yes, naloxone is safe for all ages. It works only if you have opioids in your system. It is safe to keep on hand because it cannot be improperly used and does not create dependence.
Where can I get a kit?
For more information and where to get a free naxolone kit for individuals or businesses, please visit: Recognize and temporarily reverse an opioid overdose | ontario.ca
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is committed to supporting safe and healthy communities for all Ontarians. As a law enforcement organization, the OPP’s role in this crisis is to investigate opioid-related incidents with an acute focus on the apprehension of those who traffic, import and produce illegal drugs.
An overdose is preventable. Knowing the real facts about drugs and what to do when you see someone experiencing an overdose DOES save lives. The opioid crisis does not discriminate and affects people from all walks of life in our communities. If you witness an overdose – do not hesitate to call 9-1-1.
