West Kelowna firefighters trained to use life-saving drug

A drug that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose is now available in the Okanagan for emergency workers.

Naloxone is the drug that is used to reduce the risk of brain damage or death from future opioid overdoses. On July 14, it was announced that emergency departments across the province would be equipped with the drug to help fight opioid overdoses.

In the Okanagan, the City of West Kelowna announced on Tuesday that West Kelowna Fire Rescue would now have access to Naloxone.

“Although we would certainly prefer not to experience these emergencies in the first place, it is important to ensure we are equipped to handle opioid overdoses in our First Medical Responder role,” said West Kelowna Fire Chief Jason Brolund.

“Our sole focus is protecting our residents and ensuring we are the best equipped we can be to handle any emergency.”

Before Naloxone, firefighters were only able to assist breathing by performing CPR or using an automated external defibrillator until an ambulance arrived on scene.

When an ambulance arrived on the scene, paramedics would give out the Naloxone.

With the amount of time spent waiting, the firefighters are now able to administer the Naloxone themselves.

The firefighters have completed training on how to use the life-saving drug correctly.