Northern Health issues drug advisory for Prince George

Northern Health (NH) issued a drug advisory for Prince George for a light purple pebble-like substance.

According to NH, the substance tested positive for carfentanil, and is possibly linked to an increase in overdoses and abnormal symptoms.

The alert is scheduled to expire September 1st.

Some safety tips provided include:

• Get training to prevent, recognize, and respond to an overdose; carry naloxone.
• Don’t use alone, use with someone you trust.
• If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard app available free on the app store or on Toward the Heart website.
• Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less.
• When possible, avoid mixing drugs or mixing drugs with alcohol.
• Test a small amount first, start low and go slow.
• Use in an OPS if possible (see Prince George locations listed below).
• Access fentanyl drug checking where available (OPS sites).
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses.

Local overdose prevention sites include:

• Prince George Needle Exchange
  Address: 277 George St, Prince George, BC, V2L 1R1
  Phone: 250-645-3810
  Monday to Sunday, 8:15 am to 12 pm, and 1:15 pm to 6:30 pm (OPS until 6:30 pm)
  Nursing services by appointment: Monday to Sunday, 8:15 am to 12 pm, with open clinic hours from 1:15 pm to 6:30 pm
• Mobile harm reduction supplies (The wellness or outreach truck)
  Monday to Sunday, 7 pm to 11 pm
• Two Doors Down
  Address: 1126 3rd Ave, Prince George, BC
  Tuesday to Saturday, 8 am to 1 pm; Tuesday to Friday, 5 pm to 9 pm (Sample drop off available during OPS hours)
  Drug checking available Tuesday to Saturday, 12 pm to 4 pm