31 suspected overdoses, drug poisonings in 4 days prompt community drug alert

The Waterloo Region Integrated Drug Strategy has issued a community drug alert after the group says there were 31 suspected overdoses and drug poisonings in four days.

The group said it happened between Aug. 31 and Sept. 3, adding the heat can contribute to an increased risk of death from drug toxicity.

Waterloo region was under a heat warning over the weekend into Wednesday. Temperatures on Thursday and Friday are expected to be in the low to mid-20s, but humidex values will make it feel closer to 30 C.

Preliminary data on the region's integrated drug strategy website shows there have been 41 suspected opioid deaths in 2023.

People are asked to not use drugs alone, and to call 911 if they witness an overdose and administer naloxone if an opioid overdose is suspected.