A drug poisoning advisory is in effect for Cowichan and the Southern Gulf Islands.
On social media, Island Health announced the advisory on Friday, saying that drug poisonings are increasing in both areas. Friends, family and community members who use unregulated substances deal with an increased risk.
To keep people safe, Island Health encourages you to visit your local overdose prevention site, to check your drugs, carry Naloxone, use one substance at a time, have someone check in on you if you’re using the substances alone, take a small amount of the drugs, and stagger use with a friend/
They say in the event of an overdose, call 9-1-1, stay with the affected person, give them one breath every 5 seconds, and to give Naloxone.
