Program that offers life-saving naloxone kits extended in Oakville, Milton, Burlington

A program to help prevent overdose deaths is being extended in Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Halton Hills.

As part of its ongoing response to the opioid crisis, the Halton Regional Police Service is further expanding its lifesaving naloxone kit distribution program to include select frontline officers and support personnel who work closely with those at risk of drug poisoning.

“As a police service, we are committed to keeping those we serve safe,” said Chief Stephen Tanner. “The success of our naloxone kit distribution program shows that members of the public want this lifesaving drug, and we are proud to work with our community partners across Halton to not only increase access to it but to reduce any associated barriers and stigma as well.”

Those assigned to the Service’s Mobile Crisis Rapid Response Team, Community Mobilization Officers, and support workers will be part of today’s new pilot program offering free naloxone kits to everyone they interact with in the course of their day-to-day work, no questions asked, no records kept.

“Each of these 30 people have received in-depth training in this vital first aid tool. This training not only includes how to use the kits, but also how to connect those interested with additional community supports,” said a police spokesperson.

Nnaloxone kits are currently offered free-of-charge and confidentially to everyone through HRPS’ Central Lock-up (CLU) in Oakville. Since the program was introduced in November 2022, more than 180 members of the public have accepted the vital first aid tool from the Service’s 18 specially-trained Special Constables.

Naloxone is a drug that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid drug poisoning. Once administered, it will begin to work in one to five minutes and stays active in the body for 30 to 90 minutes, meaning it can save the life of anyone at risk of an overdose.

Each kit contains two doses of naloxone nasal spray, one pair of non-latex gloves, one rescue breathing barrier, and a pamphlet containing directions for use.

Alongside each kit, individuals will receive a card with additional resources, including links to HRPS’ Overdose awareness webpage, and to Halton Healthcare’s ‘How to use a naloxone kit’ instructional video.

All uniform HRPS members have been trained in the administration of naloxone since 2018.