Surge in accidental fentanyl overdoses, Kirkland Lake police warn

Fentanyl seized by police is seen in this file photo. Kirkland Lake OPP say fentanyl is being mixed with other street drugs, leading to an increase in overdoses. (File)

Kirkland Lake Ontario Provincial Police are warning residents to be aware that drug-related overdoses have spiked in recent days.

In particular, there is concern that fentanyl is being mixed with other street drugs without users knowing.

In one case May 27, police, fire and paramedics responded to a residence in the community “with three persons overdosing within the Town of Kirkland Lake,” police said in a news release May 28.

All three persons have since recovered.

“The OPP wanted to express concern to the public that there is an increase in drug-related overdoses and a possibility that fentanyl, a powerful and dangerous opioid, is being mixed into many illegal street drugs,” police said.

Unknowingly taking fentanyl

“This has resulted in users unknowingly overdosing on fentanyl.”

Anyone who encounters a person who appears to be in a state of overdose should immediately call 911.

Free training and take-home Naloxone kits are available without a prescription and can be obtained at local pharmacies and the Northeastern Public Health Unit.

“Please remember that the OPP supports the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which provides protection from charges for individuals at the scene of a drug overdose for simple drug possession,” police said.

“The OPP continues to work with community partners to strategically and collaboratively address the opioid crisis at local and provincial levels. Individuals looking for local supports may contact their health care provider, local health unit, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and Health Canada.”

More information is available from Northeastern Public Health and the Canadian Mental Health Association.