As fentanyl becomes more prevalent in Guelph, frontline police officers will soon be equipped with naloxone nasal spray.
A report prepared for the Guelph Police Services Board said 156 officers from several units will be trained by Guelph Paramedic Services in the coming weeks and the nasal spray will be issued by October.
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The report said naloxone will be mostly used if an officer is exposed to fentanyl or other opioids, but will also be used on victims of an overdose if paramedics are not on scene.
“Common law dictates that one of the primary functions of the police is the duty to preserve life,” the report said. “Naloxone carried by a member will be administered if that member believe it is required to save a life.”
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Policy is now being drafted to guide officers in the administration of naloxone that will outline the duties and responsibilities of call takers, dispatchers, officers, supervisors, and other relevant units.
The cost to provide naloxone to 156 officers will be $7,857, the report said, although a budget for replacement is still required.