I just heard that carfentanil and methylfentanyl have been found in the drug supply here and that’s really bad news as it will only bring in needless overdoses and deaths. I’m doing my part on getting this news out as it will effect a lot of people and the RNC will really need to crack down on the shipments coming in.
The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) has issued an urgent public safety alert regarding the emergence of two highly potent and potentially lethal drugs in the region: carfentanil and methylfentanyl.
This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing opioid crisis, posing severe risks to both drug users and first responders.
Understanding the Threat
Carfentanil: A synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than fentanyl and 10,000 times stronger than morphine. Originally developed as a large animal tranquilizer, its presence in street drugs is extremely dangerous.
Methylfentanyl: Another synthetic opioid derivative, also known for its high potency and risk of overdose.
Recent Seizures and Concerns
The RNC’s Drug Investigation Unit recently intercepted these substances during an ongoing investigation. This discovery has raised alarms about the potential widespread distribution of these drugs in the community.
Public Safety Implications
- Overdose Risk: Even minute amounts of these substances can cause rapid and severe overdose.
- First Responder Safety: Law enforcement and medical personnel face increased danger when responding to drug-related incidents.
- Community Impact: The presence of such potent drugs could lead to a surge in overdose cases and fatalities.
RNC’s Response and Recommendations
The RNC is taking proactive measures to address this threat:
- Enhanced Monitoring: Increased surveillance and intelligence gathering to track drug distribution networks.
- Public Awareness: Educating the community about the dangers of these new substances.
- Collaboration: Working closely with health authorities and addiction services to provide support and resources.
What You Can Do
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local health advisories and warnings.
- Seek Help: If you or someone you know struggles with addiction, reach out to local support services.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Contact law enforcement if you suspect drug trafficking in your area.
The emergence of carfentanil and methylfentanyl in our community represents a critical public health challenge. By staying vigilant and working together, we can help mitigate the risks associated with these dangerous substances and protect our community’s well-being.
Getting Naloxone Kits In Newfoundland
Naloxone kits are widely available across Newfoundland and Labrador, and there are several ways to obtain them for free. Here’s a comprehensive guide on where and how to get naloxone kits in the province:
Distribution Methods
Health Line 811
One of the easiest ways to find a naloxone kit is to call the 811 NL HealthLine. A registered nurse will provide you with contact information and the location of the nearest distribution site.
Online Resources
- Interactive Map: You can use an online interactive map to find distribution sites near you.
- Distribution Site List: A comprehensive list of distribution sites is available online.
Types of Distribution Sites
Naloxone kits are available at over 130 distribution sites across Newfoundland and Labrador.
These sites include:
- Mental Health and Addiction centers
- Community health clinics
- Hospitals and emergency departments
- Public health offices
- Pharmacies
- Community organizations
- Municipal offices
- Food banks
Specific Locations
Here are some examples of places where you can obtain naloxone kits in Newfoundland and Labrador:
- Labrador City: Mental Health and Addictions at Labrador West Health Centre.
- Gander: Opioid Dependence Treatment Hub at McCurdy Complex.
- Grand Falls-Windsor: Mental Health and Addictions center and the Emergency Department at Central Newfoundland Regional Health Centre.
- St. John’s: Emergency Department at Janeway Health Centre and The Salvation Army Ches Penney Centre of Hope.
Additional Options
- Mail-out Service: For those who cannot access a distribution site, there’s an option to have a naloxone kit mailed to you.
- Community Outreach: Some community organizations and pubs, like The Newfoundland Embassy Pub and Eatery in St. John’s, also distribute naloxone kits.
Important Information
- Naloxone kits are free to the public.
- Training on how to use the kit is provided at distribution sites.
- The Provincial Take Home Naloxone program has distributed over 17,400 kits since its establishment in 2016.
- It’s recommended to always have a naloxone kit on hand if you or someone you know uses opioids.
Remember, naloxone is a temporary measure to reverse opioid overdose. Always call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose, even if naloxone has been administered. You can also find more information here from the Government of NL.