The nationwide drop in opioid-related deaths appears to be happening on Blood Tribe land as well. Blood Tribe Emergency Services (BTES) says it hasn’t had to respond to an overdose call in three months. What was once a near-daily occurrence has seemingly become a rarity. BTES hasn’t received a single call regarding an overdose since December 2025. “A couple of years ago, we never thought we’d get to these types of numbers,” said Travis Coleman, Blood Tribe director of emergency services. “We’ve kind of got to pinch ourselves just to, you know, make sure that it is reality and we have come down that much.” It’s a huge milestone for the nation. The Blood Tribe declared a state of emergency as recently as 2023 due to toxic drug supply. Increased awareness has been one of the biggest factors in the decline of overdose deaths. “The important thing is that we continue to communicate with our community members and our partners and also create that awareness out there,” said Marcel Weasel Head, Blood Tribe councillor. “I think it’s really important that we always preach the importance of working with families and community members, but it starts at home.” The lack of calls will make life safer for those living on Blood Tribe land. Emergency crews have more time to respond to other emergencies. “It keeps our crews ready to respond to other calls, more available for other traumas and other types of calls that we do go on,” said Coleman. “So, it’s really been a benefit to our resources.” The nation doesn’t want the positive momentum to stop. Education and harm reduction programs will continue as usual. A 75-bed recovery community is expected to open in the coming weeks to help those in recovery. “We don’t have to send our members elsewhere, you know, and we have our own people that will be employed there,” said Weasel Head. “We bring in a lot of experience and trained staff as well.” The Blood Tribe Department of Health advises drug users to never use alone in case of an accidental overdose. Naloxone kits are also available at facilities across the reserve.
