If you’re a first responder, such as a paramedic, law enforcement officer, or firefighter, there’s a lot you can do to help end Rhode Island’s drug overdose crisis.
What can I do?
Attend the First Responder Task Force Work Group
The First Responder Work Group is dedicated to promoting an exchange of actionable information between police, fire, EMS and public health by providing access to certain law enforcement, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and public health data with the intention of providing a discussion mechanism for all partners.
When: Every Other Month 3rd Thurs., 10 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Meeting times are subject to change – email the Task Force Work Group Chair to confirm meeting times.
Where: Microsoft Team Meeting [click here to join the meeting].
Set an Example for Your Community & Promote Safe Stations
Part of ending the drug overdose epidemic is changing how Rhode Islanders think about addiction and drug use. As a first responder, your attitude and knowledge about overdose can be just as influential as your service. Using compassionate language and showing kindness on-scene sets a powerful example to the community you serve. For example, consider using phrases such as “a person who uses drugs” instead of “addicts” or “junkies.”
Help stop the bias and discrimination behind opioid addiction — become a compassionate source of information for your community. You can find training offered by SAMHSA for working on the front lines of the overdose epidemic.
Learn about the dangers of fentanyl
We continue to see a lot of Fentanyl-related overdoses in Rhode Island. Fentanyl is an opioid that is 100 times more powerful than morphine, however, the risk of overdose or respiratory depression from skin and airborne exposure is a near scientific impossibility. Read more about Fentanyl Safety for First Responders.
Connect people to treatment in Rhode Island
Our state is working hard to help people find treatment options when they need it most. You can download this list of resources to learn about treatment options or call or text The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or chat 988lifeline.org to connect with a licensed counselor, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Hablamos español
Request a Recovery Coach
This flyer helps remind EMTs to call for a recovery coach on the way to the hospital if someone has just overdosed. Print and share this flyer.
More Resources
Starting a Naloxone Program
Learn how to start a naloxone program in your community with the Law Enforcement Naloxone Toolkit.
First Responder’s Project
The Rhode Island Department of Health’s Center for EMS partners with several police departments throughout the state to provide them with ongoing free Naloxone to use when responding to calls for overdoses. Please call at 401-487-7570 for more information.
Good Samaritan Law
The Good Samaritan Law provides legal protections from charges and prosecution for individuals experiencing or assisting with an overdose. Familiarize yourself with the law and uphold it when responding to overdoses.