ON Saturday, August 19, at approximately 8:30 p.m., a New Westminster Police officer was conducting foot patrols on Alexander Street when he observed a male suddenly collapse. The officer rushed to the male and observed he was unconscious and not breathing.

Good Samaritans assisted the officer and two doses of naloxone were quickly administered. Soon after the doses, the man began to show signs of life. The officer stayed with the male until he was assessed by BC Emergency Health Services and New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services.

“We’re glad this officer located this individual when they did and were able to provide lifesaving intervention,” said Sgt. Justine Thom. “Naloxone is used often by our patrol members, and with great success – we’re thankful that all our members have access to it.”

The New Westminster Police Department adopted the use of naloxone in February of 2017 as a means to save lives in opioid overdose situations. The drug, which enters the body through a nasal spray, reverses the effects of opioids.