Jefferson County officials report rise in drug overdoses
WATERTOWN, N.Y. (Nov. 14, 2019) – Jefferson County Public Health Service officials are reporting a recent increase in overdose activity from drug use.
Officials said there have been six confirmed overdose deaths in Jefferson County this year. However, there have been another 10 possible overdose deaths pending toxicology confirmation – five in October and five from November. The department is awaiting emergency department and hospitalization data from all area hospitals to confirm activity levels in these facilities.
Jefferson County Public Health Service and the Alliance for Better Communities officials want to remind people that a number of community resources have been established and expanded to help individuals who have substance use disorders.
People may access the following resources to receive assistance and treatment:
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Anchor Recovery Center of NNY: (315) 836-3460.
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Credo Community Center for Treatment of Addictions: (315) 788-1530.
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ACR Health: (315) 785-8222.
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Samaritan Addiction Services: (315) 779-5060.
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Samaritan Medical Center - Social Worker on call: (315) 785-4516.
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Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Northern Regional Center for Independent Living: (315) 785-8703 during business hours and (315) 785-8708 on nights and weekends.
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Mobile Crisis Jefferson County: (315) 782-2327.
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Hope Line: 1-877-8-HOPENY or text 46736.
To receive Naloxone training and free kits, contact Credo, ACR Health, or the Anchor Recovery Center of NNY.
The public is also reminded of New York state’s 911 Good Samaritan Law, which allows people to call 911 without fear of arrest if they are having a drug or alcohol overdose that requires emergency medical care or if they witness someone overdosing.
(Jefferson County Public Health Service)