Haldimand County OPP are issuing a public safety alert following a recent spike in suspected opioid overdoses, several of which have proven fatal.
Police say between December 20 and January 8th, officers responded to six suspected opioid-related overdoses across Haldimand County.
Four of those incidents resulted in death, prompting renewed concern about the dangers associated with unregulated drug use.
The OPP are urging anyone who uses unregulated substances to exercise extreme caution, avoid using alone, and ensure naloxone (Narcan) is readily available.
Police say anyone experiencing serious illness after consuming drugs should immediately call 911 or seek emergency medical care.
Officers are also reminding the public about the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which provides legal protection for individuals who call for help during an overdose.
The legislation applies to the person experiencing the overdose as well as anyone else present at the scene and is designed to encourage people to seek emergency assistance without fear of charges for simple possession.
Police say overdose deaths are often preventable when medical attention is received quickly and are urging witnesses to stay with the victim and call for help.
Investigators are also asking for the public’s assistance in providing information that could help identify and hold drug traffickers accountable.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Haldimand OPP Crime Unit or Crime Stoppers, where tips can be submitted anonymously.