The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health and Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) are alerting Estevan residents to a heightened risk of overdose and death from illicit drugs, following an increase in overdoses in Saskatoon. The Saskatoon Fire Department responded to 37 overdoses between March 5 and 6, suggesting the circulation of an unusually potent and potentially lethal substance.
While Estevan has not yet seen a spike in overdoses, the Ministry of Health and SHA urge residents to stay vigilant, as no illicit drug is safe, and anyone who uses them, or has a loved one who does, is at risk of overdose.
Free Take Home Naloxone Kits are available at over 450 locations across the province, including Estevan. A list of sites can be found here: Naloxone Program Locations.
Anyone who witnesses an overdose is encouraged to call 911, as the federal Good Samaritan Act offers protection from simple possession charges for those seeking help. The Ministry of Health and SHA are working with local officials to ensure a coordinated response.