Peterborough Public Health Issues Drug Poisoning Warning After Weekend Responses

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Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has issued a warning following an increase in suspected drug poisonings over the weekend, announced on Monday.

File photo.

There were seven drug-related poisonings were responded to by 911 first responders and the Emergency Department. PPH presumes this is a result of an opioid product that is pink in colour and has an increased level of toxicity according to a press release.

Peterborough Public Health is reminding the public that street drugs may be cut or mixed with toxic substances. Beware that using even a small amount of drug can be fatal.

Give naloxone if you suspect an individual is experiencing drug poisoning. This may improve breathing but may not help the individual regain consciousness. Call 911 and continue to monitor breathing until medical help arrives.

If you use drugs, PPH recommends that you:

  • Don’t use drugs alone. Visit the Consumption Treatment Services site at 220 Simcoe St., open 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., days a week.

  • If using with a friend, do not use at the exact same time.

  • Have a plan – Ask someone to check on you or call the National Overdose Response Service 1-888-688-6677.

  • Carry a naloxone kit. Keep it visible and close by.

  • Avoid mixing drugs.

  • Test your drug by using a small amount first.

  • Call 911 immediately if someone cannot be resuscitated after naloxone is administered.

PPH has released a list of signs of an opioid overdose and what to do in case of one:

  • Skin is cold and clammy

  • Fingernails or lips are blue or purple

  • Body is very limp

  • Can’t wake the person up

  • Deep snoring or gurgling sounds

  • Breathing is very slow, erratic or has stopped

  • Pupils are very small

  • If an overdose is witnessed: Call 911. Give naloxone. Continue to check for breathing. Stay with the person until help arrives.

  • Under Canada’s Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, anyone who seeks medical help for themselves or for someone else who has overdosed, WILL NOT be charged for possessing or using drugs for personal use.

Residents can anonymously report drug poisonings and other bad drug reactions using the ‘Drug Reporting Tool’.

Any information shared through the tool supports PPH and community partners in responding to and preventing drug poisonings in the Peterborough area.

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