An overdose advisory has been issued for Greater Victoria including the West Shore.
Island Health noted in the Nov. 29 alert that overdoses are increasing in the region, prompting the drug poisoning overdose advisory.
Folks using opioids and stimulants face increased risk from injection and inhalation.
PLEASE SHARE: A #DrugPoisoning Advisory has been issued for #GreaterVictoria, including the #Westshore community.
Visit our #OverdosePrevention Services page at https://t.co/wPegIrkQW1 to find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more. pic.twitter.com/Nt4GBrpiPN
— Island Health (@VanIslandHealth) November 29, 2023
For safer use, Island Health advises having substances checked, carrying Naloxone, using with a friend or using close to help, and doing a tester before a regular hit. The Lifeguard App, which offers a CPR and Naloxone guide, as well as a crisis and 811 nurses line, is also a recommended tool.
Victoria’s overdose prevention services are available at The Harbour (941 Pandora Ave.) and Rock Bay Landing (533 Ellice St.).
If you or someone you know uses drugs, visit islandhealth.ca/overdose to find services available to help prevent overdose and to use more safely. Call 1-888-885-8824 to connect with mental health and substance use resources.
Black Press Media has also prepared a resource guide filled with Greater Victoria organizations. Find it online here.
READ MORE: Mental health and addiction resource guide