The city of Fairhope will host a Narcan training event on July 30 after receiving $4,752 from a statewide opioid settlement.
Drug fatalities have increased in Baldwin County from 22 in 2019 to 75 in 2023. Police Chief Stephanie Hollinghead said it was important for the department to use the money on something that could save lives.
The training will help residents get an understanding of opioids and the dangers the drugs present to the community. The initiative has been titled the Community Overdose Prevention Effort (COPE). Partners include the Baldwin County Community Alliance, Coastal Alabama Community College, Door to Serenity, People Engaged in Recovery and Thomas Hospital.
Participants at the Narcan training event will receive a free Narcan kit and learn how to use it in the case of an overdose.
Hollinghead said anybody can benefit from the training because the opioid crisis is so widespread that an overdose could happen anywhere at any time.
“Keeping naloxone (Narcan) easily accessible in your purse, car, home, or office could be critical in assisting someone in need,” the PD said in a statement. “Enhancing the availability of this life-saving medication in communities is essential, as it could be the key to saving a friend or neighbor's life.”
Attorney General Steve Marshall represented the state in several lawsuits against opioid manufacturers that have taken a part in fueling the opioid crisis. Funds are being allocated to agencies across the state.
The training event will be at the Fairhope Civic Center from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. No registration is required.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
