The Alberta RCMP, responding to more than double the cases recorded in all of 2022, has witnessed a distressing surge in drug overdoses.
This alarming trend comprises a significant rise in suspected fentanyl overdoses with a high fatality rate. Reflecting the severity of the situation, naloxone deployments have increased by 24 percent in 2023. From January to August 2023, Alberta recorded 1262 opioid-related deaths, marking a worrisome increase of 255 compared to the same period in the previous year.
The perilous practice of cutting fentanyl is linking many of these overdoses. Individuals are mixing fentanyl with easily accessible and inexpensive substances to create a cheaper high, diminishing the effectiveness of naloxone. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Alberta RCMP issues a public warning, highlighting the unpredictable nature of street drugs.
The RCMP emphasizes the signs of a fentanyl overdose, including slow breathing, pinpoint pupils, muscle stiffness, seizures, and unconsciousness. To enhance safety, they advise the public to avoid using drugs alone, have someone check on them, be aware of overdose symptoms, carry a naloxone kit, and consider using the Digital Overdose Response System app.
The RCMP is actively collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to curb both domestic production and importation of fentanyl. Recent federal regulations classify certain chemicals as fentanyl precursors, enabling law enforcement to act against the illegal importation, distribution, and use of these chemicals.
The public is encouraged to report any information about illegal fentanyl activity to local police or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at Helpline 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.p3tips.com.