Prince George under a Toxic Drug Alert

Northern Health has issued a Toxic Drug Alert for Prince George, following an increase in overdoses.

They said a purple drug being sold as “down” tested positive for high levels of fentanyl and bromazolam (benzodiazepine), and has been linked to the overdose.

According to the health authority, overdoses are occurring when the drug is smoked and injected.

Safety tips provided by Northern Health include:

• Getting overdose prevention, recognition, and response training; carry naloxone
• Try not to 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 or call NORS (National Overdose Response Service) at 1-888-688-6677.
• 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, start low and go slow
• Use in an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) if possible
• Get your drugs checked at Two Doors Down
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses

Local supports and overdose prevention sites:

• Prince George Harm Reduction Clinic (needle exchange), 277 George St, Prince George
  Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 11:30 am, and 1:15 pm to 6 pm
• Mobile harm reduction supplies (The wellness or outreach truck)
  Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7 pm to 11 pm
• Two Doors Down, 1126 3rd Ave, Prince George, BC
  OPS/drop-in: Wednesday to Saturday, 10 am to 2 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm
  Inhalation site: Wednesday to Saturday, 10 am to 2 pm
  Drug checking: Wednesday to Saturday, 1 pm to 5 pm

More information can be found on Northern Health’s website here.