MONTGOMERY COUNTY — The Community Overdose Action Team is warning the public about a recent increase in local overdose cases.
Over the last five days, initial data showed four fatal overdoses.
The Community Overdose Action Team (COAT) is cautioning individuals who buy drugs on the street that there is a “high likelihood” that those drugs may be laced with fentanyl or other potentially fatal chemicals.
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Fentanyl has strong opioid properties. When added to other drugs, the drug increases their potency or is disguised as highly potent heroin. The high level of fentanyl added to other drugs, increases the likelihood that more than one dose of Narcan may needed to reverse to save those who overdose.
Major Brain Johns said the Dayton Police Department have been responding to “both fatal and non-fatal overdoses, with an alarming increase occurring in the area of West Dayton.” In that area, various drugs are being spiked with fentanyl.
“We urge/beg everyone struggling with addiction to first and foremost seek treatment and recovery services. Additionally, if you or someone you care about uses these drugs we ask that you take advantage of such life-saving programs as naloxone kits and fentanyl test strips that are available, free of charge” Major Brian Johns said in a statement.
COAT, a partnership between the Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health Services, Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County and Montgomery County Administration, stated its goal is to reduce the number of people dying from drug overdoses and drug abuse.
Safety recommendations for people who use drugs:
1. Have Narcan available, and someone who can administer it, in case of an overdose. Call 937-734-9468 to get a kit today.
2. Do not use drugs that contain or may contain fentanyl.
3. Do not use drugs alone.
4. Do not share needles.
5. In the event of an overdose, call 911 immediately.
6. For individuals experiencing addiction and in need of immediate care, contact OneFifteen’s
Crisis Stabilization Unit at 937-535-5115.
7. Call Samaritan Crisis Care 24/7 at 224-4646 for crisis intervention services