REGINA — Regina Fire and Protective Services continues to respond to a high number of suspected overdose calls in Regina.
According to an alert from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, protective services have been called to 47 suspected overdoses since Nov. 28. Three fatalities have been reported during this period.
The alert states that on Dec. 4, the Newo Yotina Friendship Centre tested a red/pink substance sold as fentanyl, which contained benzodiazepines and caused an overdose. Other substances may also be causing other overdoses and deaths, the alert says.
Also, on Nov. 27, the Saskatchewan Coroners’ Service, Regina Police Service and Regina Fire and Protective Services had reported three earlier deaths from suspected illegal drugs, possibly sold as fentanyl or gabapentin. Naloxone had been administered multiple times but did not prevent these deaths.
“Naloxone will counter the effects of opioids, but not other substances like methamphetamine and/or benzodiazepine,” the alert says.
In November, emergency responders attended to over 100 suspected overdose calls in Regina, the latest report said, with reports of unconsciousness, cardiac arrest, hospital intervention and multiple additional deaths.
“Dangerous drugs continue to circulate in the city,” the alert said.
These incidents indicate a higher risk of overdose and death from drugs continues in the Regina area, the report said.
The alert will remain in effect until Dec. 11.
Some risks can be reduced, but not eliminated, by:
- Getting a take-home naloxone kit. Call HealthLine 811 to find locations;
- Calling the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677 if you are alone;
- The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose or who witness an overdose;
- Finding where to access drug checking supplies and/or services through www.saskatchewan.ca/overdose;
- Sharing this alert and distributing the poster.
- For information on overdoses and additional resources, go to www.saskatchewan.ca/overdose.
