Waterloo Region, ON – For the third time in just six weeks, a drug alert has been issued for the Waterloo Region. This alert comes after a spike in drug overdoses in the area.
According to the Waterloo Regional Police Service, there have been 12 reported overdoses in the past week alone. This brings the total number of overdoses in the region to 45 since the beginning of the year.
The alert, issued by the Waterloo Region Integrated Drug Strategy, warns residents about the presence of a potentially lethal batch of drugs in the area. The specific drug has not been identified, but officials believe it may be laced with fentanyl, a powerful opioid that can be fatal even in small doses.
This is the third drug alert to be issued in the region since the beginning of the year. The first alert was issued on January 15, followed by a second alert on February 1. Both alerts were also due to a spike in overdoses.
In response to the alert, the Waterloo Regional Police Service has increased patrols in known drug hotspots and is urging residents to be cautious when using any type of drugs. They are also reminding the public that it is illegal to possess or sell drugs, and anyone found doing so will face consequences.
The Waterloo Region Integrated Drug Strategy is also urging those who use drugs to take precautions, such as using with a friend, starting with a small amount, and having naloxone on hand in case of an overdose.
This latest drug alert serves as a reminder of the ongoing opioid crisis in Canada. According to Health Canada, there were over 17,000 opioid-related deaths in the country between January 2016 and June 2020.
The Waterloo Region Integrated Drug Strategy is continuing to monitor the situation and is working with local agencies to provide support and resources for those struggling with addiction.
Residents are urged to report any suspicious drug activity to the police and to seek help if they or someone they know is struggling with addiction. The Region of Waterloo offers a variety of resources and services for those seeking help with substance abuse.
As the situation continues to unfold, officials are reminding the public to stay vigilant and to take necessary precautions when it comes to drug use. The safety and well-being of all residents in the Waterloo Region is of utmost importance, and it is crucial that we work together to address this ongoing issue.
