Police in neighbouring northern Ontario jurisdictions are warning the public about a sharp increase in drug poisonings and suspected overdose deaths. The Anishinabek Police Service reported a spike in overdoses in Nipissing First Nation over a two-day period beginning March 31. Meanwhile, the North Bay Police Service issued a public safety alert on April 4, confirming a significant increase in suspected drug overdose deaths in the city. ‘A more potent substance’ possible in Nipissing First Nation “The exact cause is unknown, but this is a critical reminder that street drugs may be cut or mixed with other dangerous substances,” said the Anishinabek Police Service in a recent social media post. “This is a critical reminder that street drugs may be cut or mixed with dangerous substances such as benzos (benzodiazepines), xylazine, medetomidine, fentanyl, or carfentanil,” Nipissing First Nation said in a news release. Police said the increase raises serious concern that a more potent substance may be circulating the community. The First Nation police service emphasized that addiction is not a choice and that the unregulated drug supply is highly unpredictable. “We also know that the unregulated drug supply is highly unpredictable. So, we are reaching out to you today to ask that if you use drugs, or know someone who does, that you take steps to reduce the risk of a tragic outcome,” said Anishinabek police in a social media post. “Our goal is simple: Keep people alive.” North Bay sees rise in suspected overdose deaths “Early indications suggest that the unregulated drug supply may be contaminated,” said the North Bay Police Service in a news release Saturday. North Bay police did not provide a specific number of deaths but described the increase as significant. “While the exact cause has not yet been confirmed, this increase represents a serious concern about potentially toxic substances in the unregulated drug supply,” said police. The police force said the situation is evolving and that officers are working closely with public health and community partners to gather more information. “This matter is under active investigation,” said North Bay police spokesperson Jennifer Cross. Anyone with information is asked to call North Bay police at 705-497-5555 and press five to speak with an officer, or to contact Near North Crime Stoppers anonymously. Safety first North Bay and Anishinabek police urged community members to check in on those who may be at risk and advised people who use drugs to follow several precautions: North Bay police and First Nation leadership also provided signs of drug poisoning or an overdose to look out for: “If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately. Stay with the person until help arrives and administer naloxone if available,” said North Bay police. “An overdose is always an emergency. Even if naloxone has been given, always call 911,” added Anishinabek police on social media. Naloxone availability, emergency response Both police services noted that the Good Samaritan Overdose Act provides some legal protection for those seeking emergency help during an overdose. Anishinabek police reminded the public that naloxone can temporarily reverse an opioid poisoning and is safe to administer even if non-opioids have been used. “One dose of nasal naloxone can be given every three minutes, if necessary,” the First Nation police service wrote on Facebook. More information on drug poisoning awareness and harm reduction can be found on the Anishinabek Police Service’s website. North Bay police said naloxone kits are available free of charge at many local pharmacies and through community health services. Anishinabek police advised that on Nipissing First Nation naloxone kits are available through Giyak Moseng - Right Path Counselling & Prevention Services. For more information on naloxone, individuals can contact a local pharmacy or visit the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit website.
