Saskatchewan RCMP: Know the signs and how to help if you suspect an overdose

On December 7, 2020, Southey RCMP responded to the report of an unconscious individual at a residence in the Southey Detachment area. Local EMS were already on scene when officers arrived and had declared the individual deceased. Information obtained during the initial stages of this sudden death investigation indicated the death could be the result of a drug overdose. This is now a Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service file and an autopsy has been ordered.

The autopsy and toxicology results may take months, and as such, this individual’s death cannot yet be attributed to any particular drug; however, it is important to note that fatal overdoses are occurring in small towns and rural areas – this is not strictly a big city issue.

We want to remind the public that anyone is at risk of a drug overdose.

If you use drugs, don’t use alone. Ensure you’re familiar with health resources available to you. (https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/mental-health-and-addictions-support-services/alcohol-and-drug-support/alcohol--drug-and-addictions-resources)

Know the signs of an opioid overdose – they may include: difficulty walking, talking or staying awake; blue lips or nails; pinpoint pupils; cold and clammy skin; dizziness or confusion; extreme drowsiness; choking, gurgling or snoring sounds; slow or weak breathing; inability to wake up even when shaken or shouted at.

Know about the Good Samaritan Overdose Act – it protects anyone experiencing a drug overdose or witnessing an overdose from potential charges of possession of a controlled substance.

Know about Naloxone - it temporarily reverses the effects of an opioid overdose and restores breathing in a few minutes. If you are at risk of an opioid overdose and/or might witness an opioid overdose, you are eligible for free training and a free Take Home Naloxone kit. For more information or to get a free Take Home Naloxone kit, call Healthline 811 or visit Saskatchewan.ca/opioids.

It is important to note that Naloxone treatment itself does not replace the need to seek immediate medical attention in the event of an overdose.

Call 911 immediately if you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose.

If you have information about people trafficking drugs, you can report it to your local RCMP detachment or police service. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can report it to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.