By Charlene Tebbutt

Health officials warning about drugs and alcohol over summer

Jul 21, 2018 | 10:00 AM

Local health officials are asking the public to stay vigilant while attending gatherings and events this summer and avoid drugs or stimulants.

The warm summer months means more people are spending time outside, and while staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen is still important, the Saskatchewan Health Authority said people should also be aware of the dangers of drugs and alcohol.

The SHA said the use of drugs and alcohol can increase the risks of dehydration and make people more susceptible to injury. The SHA is also warning about the dangers of fentanyl, which is 50 to 100 times more toxic than heroin, oxycodone or morphine, and has no smell or taste.

“In the heat, things become more dangerous because your body needs more hydration, so if you’re not properly hydrated, this can cause more harm,” said Dr. Mohammad Khan, the SHA’s medical health officer in Melfort.

“Illicit drugs could be used anywhere in the city, but as more people get together and enjoy, some people use it during festivals, so that’s one of the reasons that the warning has been issued.”

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Symptoms of a drug overdose can including slow or no breathing, gurgling, gasping or snoring, cold or clammy skin and blue lips or nails. Should you encounter an overdose, the SHA is reminding people about the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which protects anyone who has overdosed or is with someone who has from possession charges. 

Charlene.tebbutt@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @CharleneTebbutt