Two Narcan training workshops heading to the North Shore
The Town of Smithtown Horizons Counseling & Education Center, will mark International Overdose Awareness Day by holding a free Narcan training event for the community.
Training will be held on Friday, August 30 from noon to 1 p.m. at Horizons Counseling and Education Center’s Community Room, located at 161 East Main Street, Smithtown. Narcan kits and resources will be provided.
“Understanding how to administer Narcan is an invaluable tool that can save a life. Narcan training equips you with the skills and confidence to stabilize an individual until emergency services arrive. Accidental overdoes among the elderly, particularly those suffering from dementia, on prescription drugs are not uncommon. Narcan serves as a critical weapon, in the war against drugs,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.
“In today’s times, our communities are being faced with significant issues surrounding overdose and substance use. Stigma significantly hinders individuals from seeking help for addiction, as it fosters shame and fear of judgment. We at Horizons Counseling and Education Center strive to break down these harmful stereotypes by educating the public that addiction is a medical condition requiring empathy and professional care. We believe that recovery is possible, and there is hope for a better future. International Overdose Awareness Day is a day to celebrate all the brave men and women who have fought the fight and won, and also to recognize and remember those who lost their lives to addiction. One life lost to addiction is one too many,” added Madi Makboulian, Director of Drug and Alcohol Counseling Services.
To register, email [email protected] or call 631-360-7578.
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Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) and Long Island Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence (LICADD) are partnering to help save lives. The legislator and LICADD are inviting residents to an overdose prevention and Narcan training session at Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station on Thursday, Sept. 5 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Attendees will learn how to recognize the signs of an overdose and when and how to use Narcan properly to aid victims. Narcan is a nasal spray used in an opioid emergency and is available over the counter. The spray can reverse an opioid overdose in minutes. All are welcome to attend. Entry for minors aged 17 or under will require permission from a guardian. For more information, call 631-854-1650 or email [email protected].
