Another Fatal Overdose in Woodstock This Weekend

Monday, 8 March 2021 13:40

Since February 22nd, WPS have responded to 10 calls for an overdose, 4 of which have been fatal. They believe the overdoses are related to two extremely potent batches of fentanyl circulating in the City.

WOODSTOCK - Woodstock Police responded to a fourth fatal overdose over the weekend.

This is the 4th overdose fatality in the City over the past two weeks. Police believe two extremely potent batches of fentanyl are behind the recent surge in overdose deaths. The Fentanyl is described as purple and black/grey.

Since February 22nd, police have responded to 10 overdose calls, four of which were fatal.

Anyone using fentanyl is strongly encouraged to never take it while alone and ensure a naloxone kit is available. Free naloxone kits can be accessed at local pharmacies, Southwestern Public Health, and the Oxford Canadian Mental Health Association.

Knowing the signs of an overdose and carrying a naloxone kit could save a life.

Know the signs:

- Slow, weak or no breathing
- Drowsiness, difficulty staying awake or cannot be woken up
- Choking, gurgling or snoring sounds
- Blue lips or nails
- Dizziness

If you are with someone who has overdosed call 911 immediately, administer naloxone, it could take more than one dose and stay at the scene until help arrives.

The Good Samiritan Drug Overdose Act means you cannot be arrested for staying with someone who has had an overdose. The Act protects the person who seeks help, whether they stay or leave from the overdose scene before help arrives. The Act also protects anyone else who is at the scene when help arrives.

The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection for people who experience or witness an overdose and call 9-1-1 for help. The Act can protect you from:

- Charges for possession of a controlled substance (i.e. drugs) under section 4(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
- Breach of conditions regarding simple possession of controlled substances (i.e. drugs).

The Act does not provide legal protection against more serious offences, such as:

- Outstanding warrants.
- Production and trafficking of controlled substances.
- All other crimes not outlined within the Act.