The Ontario Provincial Police says it has saved 210 lives by administering naloxone, since frontline officers were equipped in September 2017.
Police say the opioid crisis continues to affect people from communities across Ontario, which is evident from the continued increase in opioid-related overdoses as well as the number of occurrences where officers have had to administer naloxone to save a life.
Opioids are a class of medication used to relieve and manage pain that should only be taken under the direction and care of a physician. When abused, these medications – such as oxycodone, morphine, hydromorphone and fentanyl – can lead to addiction, overdose and even death.
Key statistical information on opioid-related overdoses and naloxone administration from September 2017 to February 2021* includes:
- The majority, 68 per cent, of naloxone recipients were male and 32 per cent were female.
- The average age of naloxone recipients was 34.8 for females and 35.5 for males.
- Most incidences occurred inside a residence.
- The majority of opioid-related overdoses occurred in OPP’s Central and West Regions.
- There was a 38 per cent increase in overdose occurrences attended by the OPP from 2019 to 2020.
“People from every age group and every socioeconomic background continue to be affected by opioids in Ontario. Since 2017, the OPP has saved more than 200 lives by administering naloxone. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act can protect you – if you see an overdose, please call 9-1-1. You can help save a life too.” – Commissioner Thomas Carrique, Ontario Provincial Police
The OPP continues to provide victims with referrals to community specific resources and advising the public about harmful substances. Please click here for more information.
38% increase over 2019 in overdose occurrences with OPP responding to 1,106 in 2020. Officers have saved 210 lives since being equipped with naloxone (2017) but need your help. If you see someone experiencing an overdose, call 911. Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act can protect you pic.twitter.com/hxwN2dYZ9H
— Ontario Provincial Police (@OPP_News) February 10, 2021