Back to SearchKFL&A Public Health is warning residents of a toxic batch of drugs circulating in the KFL&A area. Increases in overdoses have been noted in emergency departments, 9-1-1 calls for overdoses, and local harm reduction programs. Initial reports indicate that the substances being used include crystal methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine and have been observed to be in a variety of colours.
KFL&A Public Health is urging all people who use drugs to not mix drugs, do test amounts, and to never use alone. The Consumption and Treatment Service at Kingston’s Street Health Centre is open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and provides a safe and supportive place where anyone who wants to consume drugs can do so under supervision of people who are trained to respond to an overdose. The Rapid Access Addictions Medicine Clinic at Street Health Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. by appointment to provide individuals with support in getting help for a substance use disorder.
All residents are encouraged to be aware of the signs of an opioid overdose and pick up a free naloxone kit. Free kits are available at the following locations:
- KFL&A Public Health (Kingston office): Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Street Health Centre: Monday to Sunday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.
- HIV/AIDS Regional Services: Contactless drop off available Monday to Friday (call 613-329-6932). Mobile outreach unit is located at Street Health Centre from 4 to 8 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
- St. Vincent de Paul Society of Kingston: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Martha’s Table: Monday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Home Base Housing Street Outreach Team: Monday to Friday at Lunch By George from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and Street Health Centre from 12 to 1 p.m.
- Change Health Care: Monday to Friday 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Napanee and Area Community Health Centre: Monday to Friday 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m.
For more locations, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/where-get-free-naloxone-kit
Residents are reminded that an overdose is a medical emergency. Anyone who suspects or witnesses an overdose should call 9-1-1. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection against simple drug possession charges for anyone who experiences, witnesses or responds to an overdose and calls 9-1-1.
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