91̽»¨

Preventing and responding to opioid overdoses at 91̽»¨ 

91̽»¨ is committed to preventing and responding to toxic drug overdoses. The presence of highly concentrated opioids, such as Fentanyl and Carfentanil, in the local drug supply poses serious risks to student health and wellness. Recognizing the signs of an overdose and knowing how to respond can save lives. This guide provides essential steps to ensure students, faculty, and staff are prepared to act in an emergency. 
 

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Be aware of the risks 

• Fentanyl and Carfentanil are highly potent opioids found in the local drug supply.
• These substances are easily mixed into other drugs, increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
• Opioid overdoses can lead to fatal consequences or long-term health impacts. 
   

Step 2: Prevent overdose risks 

• Avoid using substances alone.
• Do not mix different substances.
• Know your personal tolerance levels.
• Start slow if you choose to use substances.
• Learn the signs and symptoms of an overdose. 
   

Step 3: Recognize the signs of an overdose 

Look for these symptoms: 

• Slow or no breathing
• Slow or no heartbeat
• Unresponsiveness
• Choking or gurgling sounds
• Cold, clammy skin
• Blue lips or tiny pupils 
   

Step 4: Respond to a suspected overdose 

• Call 911 immediately. Time is critical.
• Alert Campus Security for immediate first aid and assistance.
  • Kelowna: 250-317-2435
  • Penticton: 250-486-3879
  • Vernon: 250-307-4574
• Administer Naloxone if available.
• Monitor the individual’s vital signs (airway, breathing, circulation - ABCs).
• Perform CPR if the person is not breathing, following 911 instructions.
• Administer a second dose of naloxone if there is no improvement after 3-4 minutes.
• Continue first aid until emergency responders arrive. 
   

Step 5: Locate Naloxone and AED stations on campus 

• 91̽»¨ has over 20 Naloxone and automated external defibrillator (AED) stations across campuses and training centers.
• Naloxone nasal spray is included in wall-mounted cabinets for easy administration.
• Campus Security and first aid responders carry injectable naloxone kits. 
   

Related questions 

What is Naloxone? 
Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose. It allows time for emergency responders to arrive and provide further treatment. 

Is it safe to use Naloxone on someone who may not be overdosing? 
Yes, naloxone has no harmful effects if administered to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose. 

What is the Good Samaritan Act? 
This law protects individuals who assist in a medical emergency from legal liability unless gross negligence is involved. You are encouraged to act in an emergency without fear of legal consequences. 
 

Resources and links

• Overdose prevention and response - 91̽»¨: Overdose prevention and response page
• BC Centre on substance use:
• 91̽»¨ health and wellness services: Student well-being
• Find Naloxone kits near you:  
   

Conclusion and next steps

91̽»¨ prioritizes student safety and offers on-campus resources to help inform, prevent, and respond to opioid overdose. Students, staff, and faculty should take the time to learn overdose prevention strategies and response steps. Engage with student support services to learn more about health and wellness services, accessible education, and community engagement initiatives that promote a safer campus environment.