Back to SearchKINGSTON – KFL&A Public Health is warning residents of a toxic batch of drugs circulating in the KFL&A area. Intelligence from local harm reduction programs and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) data indicate a recent increase in overdoses. In some cases, unusual reactions have been observed such as rapid loss of consciousness, chest pain or stroke, seizures, involuntary movement, and high blood pressure. Substances being consumed may appear lime green in colour initially and become darker in colour during preparation.
KFL&A Public Health is urging all people who use drugs to not mix drugs, to do test amounts, and to never use alone. Using drugs alone is a major risk factor for experiencing a fatal overdose. During the COVID-19 pandemic, practice physical distancing when consuming drugs around other people or connect virtually with someone that could call for help if needed. For more information about support options, visit KFL&A Public Health’s Getting Help page.
The Consumption and Treatment Services site is now located at the Integrated Care Drop-In Hub at Artillery Park and is open 7 days per week from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This site 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 related to substance use.
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 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.
- HIV/AIDS Regional Services: Monday to Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4:30 p.m.
- Artillery Park Drop-In Hub: Open 7 days per week, 23 hours per day (closed daily from 10 to 11 a.m.)
- Napanee and Area Community Health Centre: Monday to Friday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m.
- St. Vincent de Paul Society of Kingston: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Martha’s Table: Monday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Home Base Housing Street Outreach Team: Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
- Change Health Care: Monday to Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 12 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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