Overdoses on the rise, three suspected drug-poisoning deaths in four days: WRIDS

Three suspected drug-poisoning deaths in 4 days The Integrated Drug Strategy is warning about a toxic drug supply that they say led to an increase in overdoses. Heather Senoran reports.

The Waterloo Region Integrated Drugs Strategy (WRIDS) is warning about a toxic drug supply that they say led to an increase in overdoses and suspected drug-poisoning deaths in the span of a few days.

According to a community drug alert posted on Thursday afternoon, from Feb. 11 to Feb. 14, WRIDS received reports of an increased number of overdoses and three suspected drug poisoning-related deaths.

Officials are advising the public to keep extra naloxone on hand.

“If the person slips back into a drug poisoning (overdose) state, administer another dose,” said the alert.

If someone overdoses, WRIDS says call 911, administer naloxone, and perform rescue breathing and/or chest compressions. They warn the public not to give any other substances as they say this can make drug poisoning worse.

“If no improvements, continue to give naloxone two to three minutes apart until paramedics arrive,” the alert said.

If you have to leave the person unattended, the alert suggests you put them in the recovery position.

WRIDS offers more tips on how to what to keep in mind while using substances:

“THE DATA CONTINUES TO GO THE WRONG WAY”