Fentanyl far from the Townships, but not out of reach

Fentanyl overdoses have reached epidemic proportions, particularly in British Columbia, where the drug claimed 922 lives in 2016 alone.

A synthetic opiate, fentanyl can be up to 100 times more powerful than morphine. Traditionally used as a treatment to manage debilitating pain, in recent years fentanyl has been appearing in street drugs, namely Oxycontin and heroin, with devastating results.

Though cases of fentanyl use have not been reported here in the Townships, the opioid has been seen around Quebec. Two packages from China were intercepted on December 22 at the Montréalmirabel International Airport. The packages, confiscated by the Canada Border Services Agency, contained 209 grams of carfentanyl, a drug almost

identical to fentanyl. The following day, on December 23, a drug lab in Potton, a municipality of Memphrémagog, was raided by the The Sûreté du Québec's Montérégie Organized Crime Investigation and Coordination Division. The lab was equipped to synthesize a number of drugs, including fentanyl.

The most dangerous aspect of the fentanyl is that the margin between safe and deadly consumption is extremely small, only the amount of two grains of salt. Though nationally, the emergence of fentanyl has sparked a public health crisis, the Sherbrooke Police reassured citizens that the department is keeping an eye on the situation.

“There have been no cases” said Martin Carrier, public relations officer of the Sherbrooke Police Station. He added, however, that the police are prepared if the drug does make an appearance in the region. “There are already security measures in place.”

In a recent press release, the The Sûreté du Québec announced that Échec au Crime (Crime Stoppers), is offering a reward up to $2 000 for any information leading to the seizure of the drug or the arrest of its traffickers.

The Royal Canadian Mountain Police warned landlords to be alert for fentanyl lab operations, and posted possible signs on its website to watch for.

Unusual amounts of white or coloured powder on walls, floors, countertops, furniture, clothes dryer and/or vent.

Unusual thumping sounds that could indicate a pill press machine.

Chemical odours - often a strong vinegar smell.

Exhaust fans running at odd times. Residents may wear filtration masks, safety glasses or other protective equipment and suggest that they are "painting".

The RCMP also stressed that fentanyl is easily absorbed through the lungs and skin and that exposure to the drug can cause severe health problems.

To contact Crime Stoppers, citizens can call the 1800-711-1800 or visit their website: échecaucrime.com.