Pacific Summit VANDU June 2009
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Overdose Prevention
#1 Don’t use alone!
If you use alone, tell someone before you use, leave the door unlocked and have someone come check on you. Call any of our Peer Network Members to request a check in. (click here for full list of numbers)
#2 Know your Tolerance
Use less drug then before if: you are also taking certain prescription medications (they can impact the body’s ability to process the drugs) and/or you are using after a period of time of non-use (detox, abstinence, hospitalization, jail or new use).
#3 Don’t Mix Drugs
Do not mix drugs and alcohol. If you do, use the drugs first before the alcohol. Mixing opioids with downers or opioids with uppers puts you at higher risk of overdose; try to take one thing at a time.
#4 Know the quality of the Drugs
The street quality of substances is unpredictable, do testers, go slow, and try to use a consistent reliable dealer.
#5 Know Your Health and Body
If you have hepatitis or liver problems, breathing problems, lack of sleep, dehydration, or infections, they can put you at higher risk for overdose. Ensure to eat, drink water, sleep and see a doctor for infections or health concerns.
#6 Learn more about Naloxone
Naloxone is a medication that can reverse an overdose, call any number here to get one.
CALL any number below for help with safe use:
Peer Network:
Indigenous Members
Grace (778) 347-5528
Nick (604) 556-6246
Advocacy Members
Val (604) 768-8625
Andrea (778) 347-5955
Justin (778) 779-3029
Doug (604) 226-7364
Chilliwack Member
Connie (604) 556-6979
Homelessness Members
Harvey (604) 556-6410
Steve (778) 240-1393
Rene (778) 779-6508
*G-Unit and George are also Peer Network Members but they do not use DWS phones. To reach them or any member listed above email their first name @drugwarsurvivors.com
