Community training for those with loved ones at risk of overdose
A free community training session on the use of Narcan to save a life from drug overdose is being offered by the Salem County Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Drug and Alcohol Services.
The free training will be held on Sept. 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. (registration at 5:30 p.m.) at the Pennsville Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), 693 South Broadway in Pennsville. Topics include overdose prevention strategies, signs and symptoms of overdose, how to administer Naloxone, rescue breathing, overdose prevention legal rights, and general support information.
A free Narcan kit will be given to those attending at the end of the training.
"This is a critical training session, designed especially for those with family members, or loved ones at risk of overdose," said Freeholder Bob Vanderslice, who chairs the Health and Human Services Committee. "Seating is limited to 30 people, but if the response is overwhelming, we will schedule another free training so that we can meet the community's need."
Freeholder Director Julie Acton urged anyone who faces the daily stress of how to intervene should a drug overdose occur to attend.
"It can be overwhelming to watch a loved one who is involved with drugs. This training will give you at least one way to respond in the worst of situations," said Freeholder Director Acton. "Take advantage of this training and go home with a very important Narcan kit to help you step in if ever needed."
Training will be provided by the professional staff from Urban Treatment Centers. Registration is required, as seating is limited.
To register, contact Maggie Vaughan, who directs the County's Office of Drug and Alcohol Services at 856-935-7510, Ext. 8460, or email her at Maggie.vaughan@salemcountynj.gov.
This item submitted by Brenda Banks, County of Salem.