10 possible overdose deaths in Jefferson County in recent weeks

WATERTOWN, NY —  The Jefferson County Public Health Service released the following statement on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019:

Jefferson County, NY is experiencing increased overdose activity from drug use. There have been 6 confirmed overdose deaths for 2019. However, beginning in October, there are an additional 10 possible overdose deaths pending toxicology confirmation, 5 from October; and 5 from November.

The department is awaiting emergency department and hospitalization data from all area hospitals to confirm activity levels in these facilities.

The Jefferson County Public Health Service and the Alliance for Better Communities want to
remind people that a number of community resources have been established and expanded to help people who have substance use disorders, and for people to access these resources to receive assistance and treatment:

Anchor Recovery Center of NNY: (315) 836-3460

Credo Community Center for Treatment of Addictions: (315) 788-1530

ACR Health: (315) 785-8222

Samaritan Addiction Services: (315) 779-5060

Samaritan Medical Center – Social Worker on Call: (315) 785-4516

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255

Northern Regional Center for Independent Living: (315) 785-8703 business hours;
and (315) 785-8708 nights and weekends.

Mobile Crisis Jefferson County: (315) 782-2327

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.