Keeping Our Community Safe: Drug Poisoning Awareness, Harm Reduction & Supports
The ‘Na̱mg̱is Health Centre cares about the safety and wellbeing of our community.
Drug poisoning and overdoses can happen unexpectedly and may involve substances that are stronger, contaminated, or different than expected. Whether you use substances yourself, support a loved one, or want to know what to do in an emergency, these resources are here to help keep our community safe.
There is no shame in asking questions, carrying naloxone, checking on someone, or getting support.
Looking out for one another saves lives.
Signs of an Overdose or Drug Poisoning
Common warning signs may include:
• Extreme drowsiness or inability to wake up
• Slow, unusual, or stopped breathing
• Repeated vomiting
• Gurgling, choking, or foaming at the mouth
• Lips or fingertips turning blue, purple, or grey
• Loss of consciousness or not responding
If you suspect an overdose or poisoning: CALL 911 immediately.
What To Do in an Emergency
- Call 911
- Try to wake the person (shout, rub sternum if trained)
- Give naloxone if available
- Stay with the person and monitor breathing
- Place them in the recovery position if unconscious but breathing
- Give another dose of naloxone if needed and wait for emergency responders
Naloxone (or Narcan)
Naloxone can temporarily reverse opioid overdoses and save lives.
Naloxone kits are available through the ‘Na̱mg̱is Health Centre, the Alert Bay drugstore, and other community distribution locations.
Older or expired naloxone kits can be traded in for new naloxone and properly disposed of through:
• ‘Na̱mg̱is Health Centre / Harm Reduction Services
• Alert Bay Drugstore
Please do not throw expired naloxone in the garbage. Bring it in for safe disposal and replacement.
Common Questions
Do I need to use substances to carry naloxone?
No. Family members, friends, staff, coaches, Elders, and community members can all carry naloxone. Carrying naloxone can help save a life.
Can I keep nasal naloxone (narcan) in my vehicle?
Avoid direct heat and sunlight and follow storage directions provided with your naloxone kit.
Where can I get naloxone?
Naloxone may be available through the Na̱mg̱is Health Centre, Alert Bay Drugstore, and other local distribution locations. Contact the clinic for more information.
Ways to Stay Safer
If using substances:
• Don’t use alone
• Tell someone you trust where you are
• Start low and go slow
• Avoid mixing substances
• Use clean supplies
• Access testing or checking when available
• Carry naloxone
Supporting a Loved One
If someone you care about uses substances:
• Avoid judgement or shame
• Check in regularly
• Learn overdose signs
• Keep naloxone nearby
• Encourage support when they are ready
• Let them know they are not alone
Sometimes people avoid reaching out because they are scared of being judged. Compassion and connection matter.
Local Supports
Support is available without judgement. No shame — just care and community safety.
‘Na̱mg̱is Health Centre & Harm Reduction Services
The ‘Na̱mg̱is Health Centre and Harm Reduction Services can help with naloxone kits, safer-use supplies, harm reduction information, support, and referrals.
Phone: (250) 974-5522 | Email: tanis.dawson@namgis.bc.ca
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
‘Na̱mg̱is Harm Reduction Services & Supplies
Supports may include:
• Naloxone kits
• Naloxone replacement for older or expired kits
• Safer-use supplies
• Harm reduction information and education
• Support and referrals
You can also access naloxone through the Alert Bay Drugstore and other local distribution sites.
Alert Bay Drugstore
Naloxone kits and pharmacy support may also be available through Alert Bay Drugstore.
Phone: (250) 974-5712
Address:
90 Fir Street
Alert Bay, BC V0N 1A0
Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Whether you are looking for naloxone, safer-use supplies, information, support, or simply have questions — you are welcome to reach out.
Helpful Resources
Lifeguard App (for people who may be using alone)
The Lifeguard App is a free phone app designed to help protect people who may be using substances alone.
A timer is started before use. If the person becomes unresponsive and does not respond to check-ins, the app can help connect emergency responders.
Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act
Many people worry about calling 911 during an overdose because they are afraid of getting in trouble.
Canada’s Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection for people seeking emergency help during an overdose.
If you think someone may be overdosing — call 911.
Naloxone Information & Training
Want to learn more about naloxone, overdose response, and harm reduction?
Toward the Heart provides information on overdose prevention, naloxone kits, training, and safety information.
No Shame. Community Care Saves Lives.
As a community, we look out for one another. Whether you use substances, support a loved one, carry naloxone, or simply check in on someone — your care matters.