'Urgent warning' issued after 12 overdoses on Sunday in Surrey

The Fraser Health Authority has issued a warning after a startling number of overdoses that were reported in Surrey in a single day.

On Sunday, March 3, at least 12 overdoses were reported by first responders.

Some of these reports, according to Fraser Health, are thought to be from cocaine laced with powerful opioids, including fentanyl.

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The health authority and local police are warning for any drug users who don’t feel well to seek medical attention immediately.

Fraser Health has also issued the following precautions:

• Where possible, don’t use alone – use supervised services.
• If you do use alone, make a plan to have someone check on you.
• Stagger use with friends so that someone can respond
• Test by using small amounts and go slowly
• Do not mix alcohol and other drugs

Anyone who witnesses an overdose is also encouraged to help by immediately calling 9-1-1, opening the person’s airway, and administering naloxone, if possible.

Urgent warning from @Fraserhealth. Drug users who do not feel well are advised to seek medical attention immediately. #surrey #newwest pic.twitter.com/rUdhfHTM6y

— New West Police (@NewWestPD) March 4, 2019

Last year, at least one person in Vancouver died from a fatal drug overdose every day, according to the BC Coroners Service.

British Columbia saw a total of 1,489 suspected overdose deaths in 2018.