If you’re a first responder, there’s a lot you can do to help end the opioid overdose crisis.
What can you do
Set an Example for Your Community
Part of ending the 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 powerful as your service. Help stop the stigma behind opioid addiction — become a compassionate source of information for your community.
Report Overdoses
As a first responder, you understand how serious the overdose problem is — but many people don’t. When you report an overdose, you’re doing your part to get important information to the organizations working to end Rhode Island’s overdose epidemic.
Know Naloxone
It’s very important that you know how to use naloxone correctly — and that you can help others learn, too. Remember, your knowledge can save lives.
Know Fentanyl
We’re seeing a lot of Fentanyl overdoses in Rhode Island. Fentanyl is an opioid that is 100 times more powerful than morphine. Learn more about Fentanyl safety for first responders, and you can help keep yourself and your co-workers safe.
Learn about BH Link (Crisis Intervention Program)
BH Link is a new program intended to serve people over 18 who are experiencing behavioral health crises, like mental health and/or substance use. This program includes the BH Link Triage Center: a 24/7 community-based walk-in/drop-off facility where clinicians connect people to immediate, stabilizing emergency behavioral health services, and long-term care and recovery supports. Click here to download a sheet to learn more.
More Information
Responding to Overdose with Naloxone
Check out this video from the Providence Journal where Lt. Joe Vinacco, Branch Avenue Providence Fire Department talks about responding to overdose with naloxone.
More Resources
Starting a Naloxone Program
Learn how to start a naloxone program in your community with the Law Enforcement Naloxone Toolkit.
Informational Videos about Naloxone
Watch and share these naloxone training videos from Prescribe to Prevent.
Safe Stations
Learn about Safe Stations, a resource which provide free and immediate access to supportive services through Providence’s fire stations.