In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, the Grey Bruce Health Unit joins with Safe 'n Sound to host a Community BBQ on Friday, August 31, from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. at Safe 'n Sound, 310 8th Street East, Owen Sound.

This event will bring the community together to remember the loved ones we have lost and acknowledge the grief felt by friends, family and the community as a whole. The aim is to raise awareness and spread the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable. Prevention, education and recognition of an overdose all play an important role in saving lives.

Nurses from the Grey Bruce Health Unit will be available at the BBQ to deliver Overdose Awareness Education and dispense the lifesaving medication Naloxone. Naloxone can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose. Naloxone is available free of charge to family, friends and people at risk for overdose.

"We know that only 7% of Canadians report knowing how to obtain and administer Naloxone. We are working to increase this knowledge," says Laurie Moore, a Registered Practical Nurse with the Harm Reduction Program.

Naloxone is available at the Grey Bruce Health Unit as well as select local pharmacies and community partners. Visit Ontario.ca/overdose to find out more.

source: media release, GBHU