HENDERSON, Ky. (FOX 56) – With large companies like Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens set to pay billions to help end the opioid epidemic in the U.S. but the epidemic is still fully alive.
The Henderson Police Department said they have experienced a dramatic increase in overdose calls in the last two days.
The police department is blaming fentanyl or drugs like meth laced with fentanyl.
“If you or someone you know are currently battling addiction and would like assistance finding treatment, please reach out to the Henderson Police Department or Henderson Sheriff’s Office and ask about the Angel Initiative.”
Launched in 2016, the Angel Initiative is a completely voluntary program that allows anyone struggling with addiction to come to any KSP post and get help finding treatment.
Anyone that comes forward will not be arrested or charged with any drug violations if they participate in a treatment program. They can also safely dispose of any drugs or any paraphernalia they might have on them without being arrested.
The department said they are aware of the problem and are working with the Henderson Sheriff’s Office and with continue enforcement efforts, but hope announcing the spike will help keep some people safe.
“If you or a loved one are currently using fentanyl or methamphetamine please be sure to have Narcan on hand, to assist in life-saving measures until emergency professionals arrive,” Henderson police said in a news release.
The Henderson Health Department offers free Narcan. Those interested in receiving Narcan must watch a nine-minute training video, answer questions, and provide a mailing address. To learn more about how to get free Narcan, click here.
If you or someone you know is seeking treatment, Kentucky has hundreds of addiction-treatment facilities available. Go to FindHelpNowKY.org or call 877-318-1871 for more information.