Six Suspected Drug Overdoses Reported in Grey Bruce Region Over 72 Hours
Between November 29th and December 2nd, six suspected drug poisonings occurred in Grey Bruce, one of those resulting in a fatality. This marks the second suspected fatal overdose in just one week. The Grey Bruce Public Health unit issued an opioid alert to community partners and the public on December 2nd.
“GBPH is saddened to learn of another suspected drug-related fatality in our area. We extend our sincere condolences to those impacted by this loss,” says Monica Blair, manager of the GBPH’s harm reduction program.
This brings the total number of opioid alerts issued by public health to 26 in 2024.
Fentanyl is suspected in the recent fatal overdose, as well as at least one other nonfatal overdose.
Grey Bruce Public Health is urging caution, underscoring the extreme danger of unregulated street drugs commonly laced with fentanyl or other powerful opioids. Utilizing only new supplies, never sharing equipment, and never using alone are critically important.
The SOS mobile team now offers detailed drug screening: 519-379-8743, Monday to Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
They test for fentanyl, benzodiazepines, and xylazine.
In addition:
-
Don’t use alone. Have a sober person with you, or access NORS (National Overdose Response Service)
-
Call or text NORS: 1-888-688-6677. They remain on the line to provide support.
- Start low and go slow. Especially when trying something new or restarting use.
-
-
Never share supplies. This reduces the risk of getting or spreading infections.
- Get naloxone. It could save a life. Naloxone is widely available – free at local pharmacies and at GBPH. No prescription is required.
Understand and Mitigate Risk
The mixing of fentanyl with sedatives and other drugs is significantly increasing, making simple overdose unresponsive to emerge: responding to overdoses more complicated and more dangerous.
For Immediate Help:
- Overdose is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing an opioid overdose.
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects people at the scene from simple possession charges when calling 911.
Resources for Help and Support
-
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 988
- Connex Ontario: Call 1-866-531-2600 or text 247247
- Ontario Addiction Treatment Service: 519-371-0007
- Withdrawal Management/RAAM Clinic: 519-376-5666
- G&B House: 519-371-3642 ext.1580
-
CMHA Grey Bruce Mental Health and Addiction Services: 519-371-3642
- Rapid Access Addiction Medicine Clinic: 519-376-3999
- National Overdose Response Service (NORS): 1-888-688-6677
- If unsure where to turn: Dial 211
What specific services does the SOS mobile team offer to help individuals reduce the risks associated with drug use?
## Interview Transcript: Grey Bruce Opioid Crisis
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show. With me today is Monica Blair, manager of the Grey Bruce Public Health’s harm reduction program, to discuss the recent spike in suspected drug overdoses in our region. Monica, thank you for joining us.
**Monica Blair:** Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** We’ve seen a tragic development with six suspected overdoses in just 72 hours, including one fatality. This is the second suspected fatal overdose in a week. What are your thoughts on this alarming trend?
**Monica Blair:** It’s incredibly concerning, and our hearts go out to those who have been affected by this crisis. The presence of highly potent opioids like fentanyl in street drugs is a major contributing factor. People often don’t know what they’re taking, and even tiny amounts can be lethal. [[1](https://cknewstoday.ca/midwestern/news/2024/12/03/six-drug-poisonings-prompt-gray-bruce-opioid-alert)]
**Interviewer:** The Grey Bruce Public Health unit has issued another opioid alert, the 26th this year. What message do you want to send to our community?
**Monica Blair:** First and foremost, we urge extreme caution. Assume all street drugs are highly toxic and potentially laced with fentanyl or other dangerous substances. Never use alone, always have naloxone on hand, and utilize harm reduction services available through our SOS mobile team.
**Interviewer:** Can you tell our viewers more about these harm reduction services?
**Monica Blair:** Absolutely. Our SOS mobile team offers confidential drug screening for fentanyl, benzodiazepines, and xylazine, providing critical information to help people make informed decisions about their safety. We are available Monday to Thursday, 8:30 am to 6 pm at 519-379-8743.
**Interviewer:** Monica, your job is clearly challenging, especially witnessing these heartbreaking situations. What keeps you going?
**Monica Blair:** Despite the difficulties, seeing individuals access harm reduction services and take steps to protect themselves gives me hope. We know that with education, compassion, and access to support, we can make a difference in addressing this crisis.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Monica. These are important messages that need to be heard. Remember, if you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to the resources available.
**(end of interview)**
