Home / Crime and Justice / London Overdose Calls Surge: 39 in 24 Hours
London Overdose Calls Surge: 39 in 24 Hours
13 Mar
Summary
- Emergency crews responded to 39 overdose-related calls in 24 hours.
- Police suspect a toxic supply of illegal substances is circulating.
- Harm reduction services emphasize timely, accurate drug trend information.
Emergency services in London, Ontario, received 39 calls related to drug overdoses within a single 24-hour span. This alarming statistic was reported by police on Thursday, shortly after they warned the public about a potential distribution of toxic illicit substances in the downtown core.
The calls, recorded between Wednesday morning and Thursday morning, resulted in several individuals needing medical intervention. Authorities believe a hazardous supply of illegal drugs may still be present in the community. Police are actively investigating leads and information pertaining to the situation.
Lily Bialas, interim director of harm reduction at Regional HIV/AIDS Connection, expressed significant concern for the well-being of community members. She highlighted the critical role of harm reduction services like Carepoint Consumption and Treatment Services in disseminating crucial, up-to-date information regarding drug trends and overdose prevention.
Carepoint, which did not experience overdoses on-site during this period, issued a drug advisory to alert partners and the wider community. The center offers resources such as substance testing via a Scatr machine and test strips. Police are urging the public to be vigilant, avoid using drugs alone, keep naloxone readily accessible, and call 9-1-1 immediately if an overdose is suspected.
