Naloxone kits are being installed due to new measures from the government of B.C. to prevent overdoses.
This fall, naloxone kits are being installed around campus at BCIT. The kits, along with an increase in posters encouraging students to know the signs of an overdose, all stem from new measures by the government of B.C., to help prevent overdoses at post-secondary institutions.
Simon Lam, the associate director of student life at BCIT, says the provincial government has been, “recognizing the need for us to increase awareness, increase education and ensure that there’s a naloxone kits across campus in case anything does happen.” Lam says the increase in awareness was partly due to recent high-profile cases, including one where a student at the University of Victoria died from an overdose.
Lam says there are approximately 32 naloxone kits are being installed across all BCIT campuses. They will be located right above the automated external defibrillator (AED) kits on campus as well as installed in the living rooms of campus housing. He explained that the kits currently have a nasal spray for naloxone, but that the school is looking into getting ones with needles equipped.
Lam says the staff in charge of student housing are trained how to use the kits. Security staff have also been trained, and have kits equipped at all times. He says that once all the kits are installed on campuses, the school is going to look into making training opportunities for staff and students, on how to use the kits, and recognize an overdose when one is happening.
“Definitely call 911 for sure and they can talk to an operator, and they’ll help them through the situation. If there’s a naloxone kit nearby, if they can grab one and then they do with them and one, they can help walk them through how to help the person.” – Simon Lam, BCIT Associate Director of student life
B.C. government taking action at post-secondaries as overdoses rise
This September, the government of B.C. released a statement explaining new guidelines for post-secondary institutions, in order to reduce the risk of toxic drugs. These initiatives include distributing nasal naloxone kits to all of B.C.’s public post-secondary institutions, and First Nations mandated institutions.
“Poisoned drugs have become incredibly toxic, and more people than ever before are at risk of dying. We’re taking action to make sure students have the tools and knowledge they need to keep themselves and their peers safe in an emergency.” – Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions
Naloxone kits are free to the public, and available at more than 2,320 locations across B.C. Residents can find where to get a free kit with, Toward the Heart’s Harm Reduction Site locater, or call 811.