A packed house in Chester Basin last week to hear a presentation by RCMP on fentanyl.
Other drugs were discussed, but the focus for the first responders in attendance was on the opioid.
Constable Philip Joudrey made the presentation and says fentanyl is a concern for first responders.
“And rightfully so. These drugs are showing up here and people want to know what they can do and what they should expect if they come across it.”
According to EMT Sheila MacKenzie, as a medical treatment, fentanyl is a useful tool.
“The fentanyl that you receive on the street is very different from the medical fentanyl that you receive from us.”
Hubbards Fire Chief Clary Coolen says he was surprised to learn how little it takes to cause an overdose or death.
“It’s only a matter of time before we start seeing stuff. Knowledge is power and this is certainly a step in the right direction.”
RCMP and Bridgewater Police issued the antidote spray narcan to their officers in the past six months and Coolen says he would like firefighters to have the same protection.
Chester Basin Fire Chief Doug Rines agrees.
“You never know what you’re getting into. Like I said, when you leave home you never know who you’re going to or what you’re going to.”
The powerful opioid is an epidemic in Western Canada and is beginning to surface in the South Shore.
Large turnout in Chester for Fentanyl presentation by @RCMPNS pic.twitter.com/H8hb52VwQ5
— Ed Halverson (@edwardhalverson) May 17, 2017
