Island Health issued an alert after an increase in overdoses in Victoria over 72 hours.
The health authority took to Twitter May 4 around 4:30 p.m. to alert the public of drug poisonings over the three days previous.
Island Health suggests users have drugs checked at a safe consumption or other agencies such as the Vancouver Island Drug Checking Program. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program continues to offer free and confidential drug checking in Victoria. The team determines a sample’s main active ingredients, fillers or cutting agents, any unexpected drugs, and the presence of fentanyl.
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The organization currently offers free drop off and pick up service through SOLID Outreach at 1056 North Park St. Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Service users can drop off a small sample for testing and will be able to receive results within one to two business days. Visit substance.uvic.ca for details.
For drug users, Island Health recommends trying a little before a regular hit; to use with a friend or be close to help; stagger use with a friend; carry Naloxone; and have an overdoes response plan or visit a safe site.
Victoria safe consumption sites include The Harbour, 941 Pandora Ave. (and mobile); Rock Bay Landing, 535 Ellice St.; and AVI at Topaz Park.
If someone overdoses, call 911, provide rescue breathing and give Naloxone if available.
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