Ahead of the season celebrating ghosts, goblins and costume parties, Fraser Health reminds people who use drugs, as well as their friends and families, to exercise caution when consuming substances, including drugs and alcohol.
“This Halloween season, Fraser Health is reminding people to take precautions if they choose to consume substances of any kind and to be aware of friends or family who may require support,” said medical health officer Dr. Ingrid Tyler.
If you choose to consume alcohol or drugs, have a plan to use safely and reduce your risk of overconsumption or overdose:
· make a plan to get home safely;
· if you are consuming alcohol, set limits for yourself and stick to them;
· drink slowly, and for every drink of alcohol, have one non-alcoholic drink.
If you use drugs:
· bring a sober buddy who can call for help if needed;
· tell someone, leave the door unlocked, and check in;
· know your tolerance and use less of a drug than before if you are also taking certain prescription medications, or you are using after a period of time of non-use;
· don’t mix drugs and alcohol. If you do, use the drugs first;
· do testers, go slow, and try to use a consistent dealer;
· in the event of a possible overdose, call 911.
Remember, first responders’ No. 1 priority is to make sure people survive.
"Take Home Naloxone" kits save lives.
For a list of where you can access Take Home Naloxone kits and where you can receive training on how to use them in Fraser Health, visit http://www.fraserhealth.ca/media/20160725_Take_Home_Naloxone_Fraser_Health_Sites.pdf.
This week, Fraser Health will launch a social media campaign specifically targeting people who use illicit drugs occasionally with information on how to reduce risk when consuming substances, where to access Take Home Naloxone kits and how to recognize signs of overdose.
For more advice, visit fraserhealth.ca/overdose.