The Stephens County Sheriff’s Office is installing overdose reversal kits in its patrol cars to save lives, possibly even their own. Each kit includes Narcan (naloxone) nasal spray, which deputies can quickly administer to individuals exposed to deadly narcotics, including heroin and fentanyl.
“We’re usually the first responders on most emergency calls. If the deputy arrives at the scene and realizes that someone is going through a possible overdose crisis, they can quickly administer Narcan, which is a life-saving overdose reversal medication, by having these kits available in their cars,” said Sheriff Rusty Fulbright. “Not only could it help save the life of one of our citizens, but our deputies can also use it on themselves if they are accidentally exposed while on a call.”
Last year, the Stephens County Board of Commissioners awarded Self-Discovery 24 money from the opioid response fund to install 100 overdose reversal kits throughout the county. The non-profit addiction recovery group provides peer-based support, resources, and education through self-directed care.
In November, the sheriff’s office installed four kits in the Stephens County Jail. Now, the kits are going in 16 county patrol cars. Each contains six doses of Narcan, along with gloves and masks.
Opioid deaths
Last year, there were eight confirmed overdose deaths in Stephens County. Since January, there have been 11 overdose calls to the county’s 911 center. While there are some cases pending reports, the Stephens County Coroner’s Office has not confirmed any overdose deaths so far this year.
Self-Discovery 24 Director Johnna Anderson says these overdose reversal kits are necessary to reduce the risks for addicts.
“Where there’s breath, there’s an option for recovery,” says Anderson. “It should be in every vehicle, every house, every school in the county.”
Self-Discovery 24 service
Self-Discovery 24 offers several programs to support individuals facing addiction and mental health conditions, including Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step programs, Faith in Recovery, Celebrate Recovery, and Veterans for Veterans, as well as a yoga class once a month.
The group will also host a Community Listening Session on Monday, April 14, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at NGTC’s Clegg Auditorium in Clarkesville.
