A harm reduction outreach group from Red Deer were in Castor to speak about the present trends regarding drug use and generate awareness on overdoses.
Jen McCrindel, Kevin Cunningham and Tricia Peden from Turning Point held their presentation at the Golden Circle on Jan. 29 on the invitation from the Castor and Coronation FCSS organizations.
McCrindel and Cunningham are outreach workers, with McCrindel covering the eastern portion of central Alberta while Cunningham handles the western region. Peden is a nurse who assist those needing services while also conducting education.
All three spoke of the misinformation that has produced fear, hatred and resistance in various communities to the supports people invovled with drugs need.
The presentation brought out the opioid crisis began four years ago and then, in 2018, the province funded several safe injection sites including one in Red Deer. In that time, Red Deer went from the highest number of deaths to the lowest in the province.
The presentation highlighted the Red Deer site sees more than 160 visits each day and that one dollar spent on harm reduction can save $5 in health servcies.
In addition to talking about reduction strategies, the three spoke about how people can help if they come across a friend or someone else experiencing an overdose.
They provided advice on how to use a Naloxone kit safely and use protection when administering CPR. Additionally, they spoke about how the Good Samaritan act protects people from liability if something does go wrong.
Kits are available at the Castor FCSS office for those wanting one. As well, the office also accepts donations that can assist those in need.
Those wanting more information can call Turning Point toll free at 1-877-346-8858 or visit them online at www.turningpoint-ca.org.