top of page

Opioid Overdose Response Kits and Training Available in Alaska

Opioid Overdose Response Kits include two doses of naloxone nasal spray (Narcan®) that are easy to use, can stop an opioid overdose and save lives. There are two doses of naloxone nasal spray included in each Opioid Overdose Response Kit. 

 

Naloxone is a medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone, easily delivered in a nasal spray, knocks opioids and heroin off the brain’s opioid receptors, reversing the effects of the opioid and allowing the person to breathe again. Narcan and Kloxxado are two brands of naloxone nasal spray medication.

Narcan-Kit-1-scaled-e1606281236371.jpg

To receive a kit: 

 

These free kits are available to anyone 18 and older and that has an Alaska-based address. For more information, please visit, www.iknowmine.org/narcan.

How to Recognize an Opioid Overdose

Do you suspect an opioid overdose? Look for:

  • Eyes have tiny, constricted pupils? 

  • Unresponsive? Rub their sternum with your knuckles. If they don’t react, they are unresponsive.

  • Shallow breathing?

​

Then quickly administer NARCAN! The only side effects of NARCAN are withdrawal symptoms from the opioid they took.

​

Commercial fishing is a difficult occupation. Fishermen frequently endure:

  • Long hours;

  • Backbreaking work;

  • Injuries;

  • Musculoskeletal disorders;

  • Chronic pain;

  • Lack of sleep;

  • Social isolation;

  • Separation from friends and loved-ones. 

 

These factors all increase the potential use of prescription pain medications and the risk of opioid addiction. As hard as it is to talk about addiction to your captains or crew, it could be life-saving.

2.jpg
1.jpg

If you suspect opioid addiction on your vessel, don’t turn a blind eye. Talk about it. Know the symptoms, carry Narcan® on the boat and learn how to use it. For additional support, contact Alaska 2-1-1 Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Services. Call center hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

Picture1.png

Opioid Overdose Response Kits

The physical, emotional, and mental stress of commercial fishing puts fishermen at a higher risk of opioid misuse, addiction, and overdose than workers in many other occupations. If you are an Alaska commercial fisherman who struggles with opioid addiction or if you know a fisherman who is, these resources can help save a life.

bottom of page