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Narcan Kits Deployed to Combat Overdose Deaths
14 Apr
Summary
- Aurora Fire Rescue is distributing Narcan kits to reduce overdose deaths.
- The program provides naloxone nasal spray to those who witnessed overdoses.
- Last year, 324 suspected opioid overdoses were documented by AFR.
Aurora Fire Rescue first responders have launched a crucial initiative to combat the rising tide of deadly drug overdoses. The department is participating in the Leave-Behind Narcan program, allowing them to distribute naloxone nasal spray to individuals who have recently experienced or witnessed an opioid overdose.
This non-judgmental approach is designed to directly address the high risk of repeated overdoses within the year following an initial incident. The program aims to provide a vital intervention tool to at-risk individuals and their families.
Funded through Colorado's Naloxone Bulk Purchase Fund, the pilot program has access to 950 naloxone kits, each containing two doses of the life-saving nasal spray. Last year, Aurora Fire Rescue documented 324 suspected opioid-related overdoses and administered naloxone 503 times.
Paramedics will distribute these kits to identified at-risk patients and their associates. Follow-up support will be provided by AFR's community health lieutenant, offering resources for healthcare, chronic disease management, and recovery-oriented programs.
