KINDERSLEY – Kindersley RCMP have responded to seven fentanyl-related drug overdoses, with three of them being fatal. The fatal overdoses occurred on May 14, July 4, and July 12. All three were adults.
Four other calls were where naloxone was administered by either an emergency responder or a civilian present, aiding in the resuscitation of two males and one female. Autopsies and toxicology analyses have been ordered by the Saskatchewan Coroners Service to confirm the nature and role of the suspected fentanyl in the fatal overdoses.
Kindersley RCMP say that the calls were the last few months between April and July.
Through investigation, police say the illicit drugs are suspected to be fentanyl, made available in a crystal-like form, sometimes tinted with a red or purple colour.
Fentanyl is a very potent opioid pain reliever and is sometimes mixed with other street drugs. It can take many forms: a colourful powder, chunks, pills or patches.
“A few grains of fentanyl can be enough to kill you – we hope to illustrate the magnitude of the danger this drug leaves in our communities,” say RCMP.
Saskatchewan RCMP is urging the public who consumes illicit drugs to take special precautions when using such as never use alone, let someone you trust know of your plans to use, and always carry a Naloxone kit.
Naloxone kits are available free of charge at many pharmacies in the province.
Call 911 if you suspect an overdose is occurring.
For more information on ways to protect yourself, or someone you know, when using illicit drugs, read Saskatchewan RCMP renews warnings about the dangers of illicit drugs after recent overdoses.
Getting dangerous illicit drugs off the street continues to be a top priority for the Saskatchewan RCMP. If you have information regarding these incidents or the substances involved in these incidents, please call Saskatchewan RCMP at 306-310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submitting a tip online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
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