Over the course of 36 hours, Regina Police responded to seven overdoses, six of them were fatal.

The recent surge of overdoses correlates with statistics showing an alarming number of overdoses that have happened in the Queen City since the beginning of the year.

Since January 1st, there have been 451 overdose events in Regina, resulting in 24 deaths.

Deputy Chief Dean Rae says the numbers are very concerning to RPS, adding that the uptick in overdoses can be attributed to the increased prevalence of fentanyl in the city.

“The ability for people to buy fentanyl and access it, that’s what’s creating a lot of our overdoses at this point in time,” said Rae. “It’s quite concerning for us, and this isn’t just a police problem, this is a community event. It’s been talked about that this is an epidemic, and I would agree.”

At the halfway point of the year, Rae says that, unfortunately, he sees the numbers going nowhere but up.

“We haven’t had a series of deaths like this for quite some time, if ever,” said Rae. “I know we’ve had multiple deaths before, but it’s concerning when we see what’s happened in our community, and how we’re going to respond.”

He says the biggest challenge RPS faces is trying to get everyone to work together to stop this problem.

Rae emphasized the importance of reporting a drug overdose, adding that due to the Good Samaritan Act, you can’t be charged for doing so.

He also laid out some of the symptoms people should be aware of when it comes to overdoses:
· Difficulty walking/talking/staying awake
· Blue lips or nails
· Very small pupils
· Cold and clammy skin
· Dizziness and confusion
· Extreme drowsiness
· Choking, gurgling or snoring sounds
· Slow, weak or no breathing
· Inability to wake up, even when shaken or shouted at.

RPS is also encouraging anyone who wishes to acquire a naloxone kit, to do so. You can access one here.