Drug overdoses on the rise in northern Ontario: OPP

The Ontario Provincial Police logo is shows over a winter roadway. (File photo/Ontario Provincial Police/X)

Ontario Provincial Police are warning the public about a recent increase in suspected drug overdoses in northern Ontario – including a fatal overdose under investigation in Kenora.

In a recent news release, police highlighted the dangers of illicit opioids, which often lack quality control and vary in potency.

“When opioids are produced illicitly, there is no quality control, and products are made with a widely varying consistency and strength,” the OPP said in the release.

“There is a higher risk of overdose when a substance is not sourced from a pharmacy.”

Authorities noted that some illicit opioids may contain additives that reduce the effectiveness of naloxone, a life-saving medication used to reverse overdoses.

OPP urge anyone witnessing an overdose to call 911 immediately, while advising that the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides legal protection against simple possession charges for those seeking emergency help.

“We encourage anyone reporting a suspected overdose to stay with the person in distress until first responders arrive,” police said.

Authorities also provided the following signs to look for if an overdose is suspected:

• Deep sleep,
• Unconsciousness,
• slowed or no heart rate and/or breathing,
• pinpoint sized pupils,
• choking or gurgling,
• cold clammy skin,
• blue-purple lips and nails, and/or
• going limp.

Police also warned against handling unknown substances, as some drugs can be hazardous without proper protective equipment, stating that suspected illegal substances should be reported to OPP or local police.

OPP officials reiterated their commitment to promoting safe, healthy communities across Ontario in the release.

“The OPP continues to work with community partners to strategically and collaboratively address the opioid crisis at the local and provincial levels,” police said.

Getting help

Individuals in Ontario seeking help with drug addictions can contact ConnexOntario online, by texting “CONNEX” to 247247 or by phone toll-free at 1-866-531-2600 to find mental health and addiction services available in their area.