HELP & INFORMATION
HaRT’s multi-faceted harm reduction service was enhanced through a partnership with Interior Health that began with discussions in October 2020.
HaRT now provides confidential drug-checking services using Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscropy (FTIR) analysis, and test strips for fentanyl and benzodiazepines.
Drug checking services are offered alongside counselling where individuals can discuss drug use, and information is provided on overdose prevention and lower-risk substance use. Referrals to other health services are also offered.
Overdose Awareness
Naloxone kits, training, safe supplies and more
Support Recovery
Safe and inclusive space for students with lived experience
Drug Checking
Free confidential harm reduction service for anyone
By providing this information to people who use drugs, they can choose to use their substances in a more informed and lower-risk way, and prevent overdose, drug poisoning, and other complications.
Strategies for TOXIC DRUG OVERDOSE and POISONING PREVENTION
NEW LIFEGUARD APP LAUNCHED
To help save more lives and ensure people who use drugs alone have access to the supports they need, the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), in partnership with regional health authorities and Lifeguard Digital Health, is launching a new made-in-B.C. resource called the Lifeguard App.
The app is activated by the user before they take their dose. After 50 seconds the app will sound an alarm. If the user doesn’t hit a button to stop the alarm, indicating they are fine, the alarm grows louder. After 75 seconds a text-to-voice call will go straight to 9-1-1, alerting emergency medical dispatchers of a potential overdose.
The Lifeguard App can be downloaded free at both the App Store and Google Play
HOW SPOTTING CAN SAVE LIVES
Spotting is an informal practice among people who use drugs (PWUD) where they witness other people using drugs and respond if an overdose occurs. During COVID-19 restrictions, remote spotting (e.g., using a telephone, video call, and/or a social media app) emerged to address physical distancing requirements.
Spotting offers connection and community support and addresses barriers to the use of supervised consumption sites. Most drug users prefer to coordinate with roommates, friends or family instead of emergency services and as long as a response plan is agreed upon ahead of drug use it can be effective in preventing a fatal event.
CAPUD.ca created a video guide and a graphical comic book to demonstrate and show how spotting works.
Toxic Drug Overdose & Poisoning Prevention Websites
BCCSU Drug Checking Project
The BCCSU Drug Checking Project is a provincial pilot that partners with harm reduction organizations across British Columbia to implement and evaluate community-based drug checking services. Results from drug checks conducted at partner sites are regularly posted on this website.
Interior Health - Toxic Drug Crisis
Learn about the toxic drug crisis and how to prevent and treat overdoses. Learn how to access substance use services & resources and resources to stay safe.
What's in Your Drugs?
Information about drug checking locations in Interior Health, types of tests, and reports on test results.
Toward the Heart website
Latest alerts and important tips on how to stay safe including overdose prevention sites and drug checking services throughout BC.
Toxic Drug Alerts for Interior Health
Bookmark this website for the latest in Toxic Drug Alerts in the Interior Health Region. When toxic drugs or contaminants are found through the drug checking services, the results are published as a warning to the community.
Click on links to view more services