Pubdate: Sat, 26 Dec 2015
Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2015 Times Colonist
Contact:  http://www.timescolonist.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481
Author: P.A. Wilkin
Page: A17

DRUG OVERDOSE DEATHS CAN BE PREVENTED

Re: "3 potential drug deaths in 2 days hit Victoria area," Dec. 23.

The recent rise in overdose deaths in Victoria highlights once again 
the urgent need for a safe, supervised consumption site within the 
city. Staff in downtown fast-food outlets and security positions 
should receive training in overdose-response protocols, as well as 
recognizing the signs and symptoms of a potential overdose.

These deaths are preventable. Nobody should have to die in the 
stairwell of a parking garage, or alone in their homes when it is 
within our reach to support a harm-reduction response to drug use and 
thus prevent unnecessary drug-related deaths.

The time is now to act, and without needless delays.

P.A. Wilkin

Harm-reduction worker

Victoria
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom