Whatcom County health officials are using Friday, August 29 as a day to provide education on overdose prevention.
The Whatcom Health and Community Services (WCHCS) is hosting a free event from noon to 4 p.m. on the Bellingham City Hall lawn, 210 Lottie Street.
The free event provides hands-on experience for community members to receive training on recognizing the signs of an overdose and administering Narcan, the brand name for the overdose treatment Naloxone. Members of the WCHCS and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will answer questions and give guidance to attendees.
Free Narcan kits and education kits can be requested while supplies last.
The event is a part of International Overdose Awareness Day, which takes place every August 31. Each year, more than 1,000 events spread across 40 countries work to create a better understanding of overdoses, take away the stigma behind drug-related deaths and create change.
“Overdose Awareness Day is an opportunity to remember those we’ve lost, support those living with grief, and confront the stigma surrounding substance use disorder,” said Kari Holley, opioid response and overdose prevention program specialist at Whatcom County Health and Community Services. “The event raises awareness around our current overdose crisis, encourages compassion over judgment, and provides education, support and resources for our community.”
More information on International Overdose Awareness Day can be found at overdoseday.com. More event info will be announced via the Whatcom County Health and Community Services Facebook page bit.ly/4140ISm.
