Toxic drug alert issued in Prince George: Northern Health

Northern Health is warning drug users that there has been a recent increase in overdoses and deaths in the area.

They say a light blue “chunk-like” substance called “down” has been linked to fatal overdoses, and recent testing of the substance has shown a high concentration of fentanyl and bromazolam.

According to Northern Health down causes a user to “experience extended periods of sedation, lasting several hours, after just one inhalation.”

They also provided the following safety tips and information:

• 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
• Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less
• When possible, avoid mixing drugs or mixing drugs with alcohol
• Test a small amount first and go slow
• Use in an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) if possible (see Prince George locations listed below)
• Get your drugs checked at Two Doors Down (6 days a week, 10 am to 2 pm Wednesday to Saturday, and 4 pm to 8 pm Tuesday to Sunday, closed Mondays; Appointments can be made outside these hours by texting or calling 250-301-3285
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses

Local overdose prevention site (OPS)

• Two Doors Down, 1126 3rd Ave, Prince George
  Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 6 am to 11 am and 6 pm to 11 pm
• Northern Health Needle Exchange and Harm Reduction Clinic (OPS/APP), 277 George St, Prince George
  Hours: Monday to Saturday, 1 pm to 6 pm