The coroners service in British Columbia says nearly 1,500 people have died this year from illicit drug use in the province.

The B.C. government is spending $36 million to more than double the number of treatment beds for youth struggling with addictions in B.C.

With an average of more than four overdose deaths a day due to illicit drug use in B.C. in May, the coroners service is warning against anyone dabbling or experimenting with drugs because the risk is simply too high.