Green, chalky substance causes overdose alert in Prince George

Northern Health has issued an overdose alert in Prince George.

According to Northern Health, there has been an increase in overdose events in the community.

The reported substance is green and chalky.

This substance is highly toxic, causes heavy and prolonged sedation, and requires more naloxone to reverse.

Northern Health says overdoses are happening when the substance is smoked and injected.

Northern Health recommends taking the following steps to protect community members from overdosing:

• Get overdose prevention, recognition, and response training; carry naloxone
• Don’t use alone. Make a plan and tell a buddy who can call for help if needed
• If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard or BeSafe app available free on the app store or on Toward the Heart website (https://towardtheheart.com)
• Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less
• Don’t mix drugs or mix drugs with alcohol
• Test a small amount first and go slow
• Use in an OPS if possible (see Prince George locations listed below)
• Access fentanyl drug checking where available (OPS sites)
• Call 911 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses

For local overdose sites, a needle exchange runs from Monday through Saturday on 1108 3rd ave from 1:00-6:00 pm, while Two Doors Down on 1126, 3rd Ave is open on Tuesday-Sunday from 6:00-11:00 am and 6:00-11:00 pm.