Free Opioid Overdose Prevention Training

Today Marks International Overdose Awareness Day

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone today encouraged residents to attend a free Opioid Overdose Prevention training held by the Suffolk County Department of Health Services. The training, which meets New York State Department of Health requirements, will enable participants to recognize an opioid overdose, administer intranasal naloxone - commonly referred to as Narcan - and take additional steps until EMS arrives. Participants will receive a certificate of completion and an emergency resuscitation kit that includes Narcan.

“As we mark International Overdose Awareness Day, we are reminded of the unimaginable grief felt by families who have watched their loved ones struggle or lose their lives from a drug overdose,” said Suffolk County Executive Bellone.  “Suffolk County will continue to lead the way in taking action to combat this scourge, and I encourage all residents to attend a class to learn how they can play a role in our efforts to address this national epidemic.”

The Suffolk County Department of Health Services’ Office of Health Education will hold its next class on Monday, September 18 at 6:00 p.m., located at 725 Veterans Memorial Highway, Bldg. C016 in Hauppauge.  To register, residents should contact wanda.ortiz@suffolkcountyny.gov or call 631-853-4017.

Dr. James Tomarken, Commissioner of Suffolk County Health Services, said: “We encourage all persons and their friends and family members who are dealing with substance abuse and who need assistance to take advantage of the resources listed on Suffolk County’s substance abuse page.  We also wish to reduce the chances of overdose by encouraging all residents to participate in our Opioid Overdose Prevention Program.”

Those who need immediate assistance may contact Suffolk County’s 24/7 Substance Abuse Hotline at 631-979-1700. Callers will be connected to treatment services and receive timely access to quality substance abuse care.  

For more information and resources for dealing with substance abuse, please visit Suffolk County’s Substance Abuse Resource Center.