Public Health urges caution for those using substances this weekend

Public Health Sudbury & Districts is reminding the public about how to reduce their risk if they use cannabis, alcohol, or other substances during the August long weekend.

“With the warm weather and long weekend arriving, we know people are coming together to relax, celebrate, and enjoy themselves. If substances are a part of that celebration, always follow harm reduction practices,” said Samantha Mortimer, public health nurse with Public Health Sudbury & Districts. “We want everyone to be safe.”

Be aware of health risks

1. Drug poisonings: These can include drug and alcohol poisoning, or “greening out”, a negative reaction to using cannabis. This risk increases when using unregulated products.
2. Increased risk for certain groups: Youth, older adults, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with a history of mental illness or underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable to negative effects from substance use.
3. Interactions with other substances: Using different substances together can amplify negative effects. This can increase the risk of adverse reactions and impaired decision-making.
4. Homemade products: There are risks with any unregulated drug products, including cannabis and cannabis edibles. Health and safety standards do not apply to cannabis sold outside of licensed retailers. These drugs may be contaminated or contain unsafe amounts of THC.

Safety tips for the long weekend

• Carry a naloxone kit. Know how to use it (PDF).
• Start low and go slow. If you are planning to use alcohol, cannabis, or other substances, start with a small amount and go slow.
• Talk to others to learn about the circulating supply before using drugs. 
• Avoid mixing. Avoid mixing drugs, including alcohol, cannabis, prescribed, over the counter, and illicit substances.
• Have a designated driver on the road or on the water. Never drive under the influence of cannabis, alcohol, or other substances. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver or use alternative transportation.
• Avoid using drugs when you are alone. Have a trusted person with you who can provide support as needed.
• If you must use alone, consider the following options:
  • Connect with the National Overdose Response Service at 1.888.688.6677 (NORS line). NORS is a virtual safe consumption line available 24/7 that provides confidential and nonjudgmental support, whenever and wherever you use drugs.
  • Access the Brave App. The Brave App is a virtual safe consumption app available 24/7 that will anonymously and privately connect to a Brave Supporter before you use drugs alone.

If you have concerns about your substance use, or that of a loved one, you’re not alone. Help is available.

• Visit phsd.ca for resources on mental health and substance use community programs, supports, and services.
• Visit mental health and addictions services Ontario (ConnexOntario). It offers services by phone, online chat, and email, and provides a directory of support services.

For more information, please call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200) or visit phsd.ca.