The RCMP is reminding residents about the dangers of street drugs after responding to a pair of overdoses, one of which resulted in the death of a 29-year-old man.
On Wednesday, Peace Regional officers were called to help with a suspected fentanyl overdose in Grimshaw. Despite the efforts of EMS and the Grimshaw Fire Department, the man passed away.
Hours later, police were called to help with a second suspected overdose in the town. Emergency responders transported the person to hospital, where they are recovering.
“Using information received from this call, Peace Regional RCMP is also conducting welfare checks on two other individuals,” police say.
In the wake of these incidents, the RCMP is investigating these overdoses and reminding residents about the safety of drug consumption.
“Peace Regional RCMP would like to remind the public that street drugs are not always what they appear to be. Had it not been for the fast actions of those around and the immediate response by emergency medical personnel and RCMP, the surviving individual may have had a very different outcome.”
Signs of fentanyl overdoses can include low, irregular, and shallow breaths, pinpoint pupils, muscle stiffness, and seizures. Naloxone can treat an overdose but is not always effective.
According to mounties, safe practices for using street drugs can start with not using substances while alone, being sure to have someone check in, and testing the potency or strength of the drug.
Police ask anyone with information regarding the pair of incidents on Wednesday to call RCMP or Crime Stoppers.