Boxes to prevent overdoses

SANDUSKY — The Erie County Health Department and Lorain County Public Health have partnered to place four emergency opioid rescue boxes, called "naloxboxes," available within Erie County. The initiative was funded by the Ohio Department of Health's Regional Prevention and Linkage to Care grant. Erie County's public health educator, Sarah Williamson, facilitated the box installation at key locations in Erie County. In Erie County, these specialized boxes will be located at the following Sandusky sites outside their main entrances: • Erie County Health Department, 420 Superior St. • Sandusky Artisans Recovery Community Center, 138 E. Market St. • Erie County Job and Family Services, 221 W. Parish St. • Bayshore Counseling and Recovery Services, 1634 Sycamore Line These kits are free and available to the public. Each box is stocked with one naloxone/Narcan kit, face shields and detailed instructions on how to administer the life-saving medication. There will also be a card, asking the kit user to notify the health department when the box is empty. The health department will also monitor these boxes to ensure kits are replaced immediately. Ultimately, the goal of this grant-funded project is to prevent overdose and protect the public from emergencies and fatalities caused by the contaminated, illicit drug supply. People can contact Williamson at 419-626-5623, ext. 5268, for any Narcan needs or for training in the administration of Narcan.