The OPP and area police forces are teaming up with the Grey Bruce Health Unit to support opioid awareness during summer R.I.D.E. checks.

Beginning on the Victoria Day long weekend and continuing throughout the summer, police services will be distributing opioid awareness cards during area R.I.D.E. checks.

The cards contain valuable life-saving information on:

• names for common types of opioids

• recognizing the signs of an overdose

• what to do in the event someone may be having a suspected opioid overdose

• what Naloxone can do in the event of a suspected opioid overdose

• important resources for additional information and support

The opioid crisis requires a community-wide response. There is an increasing trend of emergency department visits, hospitalizations and deaths related to opioid use across Ontario and Grey Bruce. Currently, one person dies every 10 hours from opioid overdose in Ontario.

In addition to area R.I.D.E. checks, the cards will also be distributed at community events attended and supported by local law enforcement agencies and EMS.

source: media release, Grey Bruce Health Unit