In recognition of Overdose Awareness Day, the Okmulgee County Consortium (OCC) will hold a safe kit distribution event Saturday, Aug. 31, at the Henryetta Housing Authority, 1708 W. Ragan Street, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.
Safe kits will be available for free while supplies last. The kits include:
• Narcan
• Medication Lock Bags
• Fentanyl & Xylazine Testing Strips
• Resource Information International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is a global event held Aug. 31 each year to remember those gone too soon from overdoses and commit to preventing these deaths, from the workplace to anyplace.
The Food and Drug Administration has approved two Naloxone products – an opioid overdose reversal medication – for over-thecounter use. Now, every American will be able to access this life-saving medication.
Signs of an overdose include:
• Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
• Slowed or stopped breathing
• Snoring or rattling sounds
• Cold or clammy skin
• Discolored lips or fingernails The Okmulgee County Consortium is a community coalition covering Okmulgee County that works on substance abuse prevention, mental health issues, food security and other issues within the county. It is under the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Their website is a resource for individuals, families and agencies concerned with mental health and substance abuse.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)’s National Helpline, 1-800-662HELP (4357) (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service), or TTY: 1-800487-4889 is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.
