Northern Health warns of “down” causing overdoses in Toxic Drug Alert

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Northern Health is warning drug users in the Fort St. John area to be wary of a pink substance being sold as “down.”

The health authority issued a toxic drug alert for the Fort St. John area on December 13th, saying the substance has been linked to “sudden overdoses requiring hospitalization.”

The overdoses reportedly occur when the substance is smoked. However, Northern Health urges users to be cautious when taking the substance by any means.

The health authority has provided the following safety recommendations:

• Get overdose prevention, recognition, and response training; carry naloxone.
• Try not to use substances alone. Make a plan and tell a buddy who can call for help if needed.
• If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard or BeSafe app, available free on the app store or on the Toward the Heart website.
• Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less.
• When possible, avoid mixing drugs with alcohol.
• Test a small amount first. Start low and go slow.
• Use in an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) if possible.
• Call 911 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses.

The Fort St. John OPS is located at 10067 100th Ave, Fort St. John, BC, and is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The toxic drug alert will expire on December 27th.