Photo: Castanet file photo

Interior Health has issued an alert for the Penticton area after a spike in overdoses.

The health authority is urging residents using drugs to reconsider or be careful to prevent an overdose. There have been recent reports of opioid overdoses in the city after using what was believed to be a stimulant/upper (ex. amphetamines, methamphetamines etc.). 

Anyone using illegal drugs is advised to take steps to reduce the risk:    

For your safety: 

• Get your drugs checked for the presence of fentanyl available at the SOWINS (South Okanagan Women in Need Society) mobile outreach van. Call or text (250)809-7054. For more information visit: www.drugchecking.ca
• Remember, smoking substances can still lead to overdose, take measures to prevent overdose.      
• Avoid using different drugs at the same time or using drugs and alcohol together.  
• Don’t use alone. Leave door unlocked. Tell someone to check on you.
• Test by using a small amount, then go slow.
• Carry a Naloxone kit and know how to use it.
• Use at an overdose prevention or supervised consumption site if one is near you.

Know the signs of overdose and how to respond  

• Recognize the signs of an OD: slow or no breathing, gurgling or gasping, lips/fingertips turning blue, difficult to rouse (awaken), non-responsive.  
• Call 9-1-1 immediately
• Open airway and give rescue breaths
• Give naloxone (Narcan) if you have it.

In Penticton, naloxone kits and training are available at:

• Martin St. Outreach-Primary Care Clinic - 117 - 437 Martin Street, Penticton
• Pathways Addictions Resource Centre - 1 - 996 Main Street, Penticton
• Penticton Health Centre - 160 - 740 Carmi Avenue, Penticton
• Snxastwilxtn Centre - 198 Outma Sqilxw Place, Penticton