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Erie County expanding access to lifesaving drug

Posted at 4:09 PM, Nov 14, 2019
and last updated 2019-11-14 23:13:05-05

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Erie County Health Department is expanding access a potentially lifesaving drug that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It's through a program aimed at making Narcan available in local businesses, restaurants and bars.

500 red metal boxes containing two doses of Narcan nasal spray are now available thanks to a grant provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

“This new program will make Narcan available in the same way that a first-aid kit or an AED device would be available: for an emergency response to keep an overdose victim alive until medical help arrives,” said Erie County Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein. “Our goal is to get these boxes delivered and installed by the end of the year.”

Interested businesses can apply online or by contacting 716-858-7695 or opiatetaskforce@erie.gov. When approved, the box can be installed in a visible spot that is accessible to the public or patrons. Health Department officials are asking businesses to check boxes regularly to see if they need to be restocked. Restocking will occur at no cost to the business or site.

Click hereto apply to become a Community Access Narcan Site.

The Buffalo and Erie County Crisis Services 24/7 Addictions hotline can be reached at 716- 831-7007.