Overdose prevention resources for Denver residents are now available at all Denver Public Library locations. Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) and the Denver Public Library (DPL) collaborated to provide free naloxone and overdose prevention resources for citizens.
In a press release, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston says, “Overdose prevention isn’t just about one person or organization; it’s about neighbors looking out for one another, education, and making lifesaving resources accessible when and where they’re needed most. By placing overdose prevention tools and training in our libraries, we’re reinforcing their role as pillars of safety, care, and opportunity in Denver’s communities.”
Naloxone has proven to be an effective tool in fighting against the overdose crisis, as naloxone can reverse an opioid overdose when administered quickly. Research shows naloxone access can reduce overdose deaths by as much as 65%, as stated in the press release.
The release notes that while naloxone is highly effective at reversing opioid overdoses, it does not work on non-opioid substances like methamphetamine or cocaine. They say, “If someone is unresponsive and not responding to naloxone, utilize rescue breathing techniques, and always call paramedics for help. Administering naloxone to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose does not cause harmful effects.”
This fall, Denver Central Library will house free Naloxone Overdose Response Training for community members on Tuesday, November 18. The training description states it will be presented by the DDPHE in which the training, which provides individuals with the basic understanding of opioids, how overdoses happen, as well as how to recognize and respond to an overdose. The training also orients attendees with some historic narrative of the overdose crisis, local data and resources, as well as other factors such as polysubstance use and illicit drug supply adulterants that affect drug user health.
To attend, registration is required, with the training being held in-person or online.
