Overdose alert issued after nearly 50 overdoses reported in Saskatoon over past week
The recent increase in reported overdoses in Saskatoon has prompted a government alert and raised concerns within the community. The Saskatoon Fire Department responded to nearly 50 overdoses in the past week, with 25 occurring on Tuesday and Wednesday, and another 23 from Friday morning to Saturday morning. The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health issued an overdose alert following these incidents, urging caution and awareness.
Prairie Harm Reduction, a local organization, has also noted a significant uptick in overdoses within their safe consumption site. Five individuals overdosed on Friday alone, a much higher number than they typically see in a single day. Of particular concern is the presence of drugs containing benzodiazepines, which may not respond to naloxone, the standard treatment for opioid overdoses. Kayla DeMong, executive director at Prairie Harm Reduction, warned against drugs that are light pink, red, or purple, as they may pose a greater risk.
The surge in overdoses has been a cause for alarm, with patterns emerging since the beginning of the year. The frequency of these incidents has increased, with shorter gaps between surges. DeMong emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and caution, especially in light of the recent spike in overdoses.
Meanwhile, a separate issue of homelessness and substance addiction continues to affect the community. A group of advocates gathered outside Station 20 West for an awareness march, aiming to draw attention to the plight of the homeless population. David Fineday, one of the organizers, stressed the importance of supporting those in need and working towards solutions to end homelessness.
Among the advocates was Irene Head, who shared her heartbreaking story of losing her son, Kevin James Sutherland, to an overdose. Sutherland, aged 46, succumbed to his addiction while living on the streets. Head recounted her desperate attempts to bring him home and the pain of watching him struggle with his addiction. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of substance abuse on individuals and families.
As the community grapples with the dual challenges of rising overdoses and homelessness, there is a growing call for action and support. Organizations like Prairie Harm Reduction continue to provide essential services and resources to those in need, but the broader issues of addiction and homelessness require a collective response from government, organizations, and the community at large. By raising awareness, advocating for change, and offering support to those in crisis, Saskatoon can work towards creating a safer and more compassionate society for all its residents.
