Extra precautions advised during summer festivities

Interior Health is advising individuals taking part in festivals and other outdoor parties to take extra precautions to stay healthy and safe this summer.

British Columbia is facing a public health overdose emergency. The Interior Health region has seen an unprecedented number of overdose deaths due to fentanyl poisoning in the past year. The best way to keep yourself safe is to avoid using drugs.

DRUGS If you choose to use drugs, take steps to reduce your overdose risk:

• Don’t mix different drugs (including pharmaceutical medications, street drugs and alcohol).

• Don’t take drugs when you are alone. Use in the company of someone who can administer help or call 911 if you experience an overdose.

• Consider getting your drugs checked for the presence of fentanyl.

• Keep an eye out for your friends — stay together and look out for each other.

• If someone is experiencing an overdose or is witnessing an overdose, call 911 immediately.

• Use less and pace yourself. Do testers to check strength — take a small sample of a drug before taking your usual dosage.

• Carry a naloxone kit and know how to use it. Visit towardtheheart.com for a list of locations to get the kit.

ALCOHOL The following precautions should be taken to reduce the risk of alcohol related harm:

• Don’t drink on an empty stomach. Have a meal or a snack with your drink.

• Drink slowly. Don’t have more than two standard drinks in any three-hour period.

• Stay hydrated. Have a glass of water or non-alcoholic, caffeine-free beverage (such as a soft drink or fruit juice) between drinks. • Avoid risky situations and activities while drinking. • Don’t drink and drive. Be sure that you have a safe and sober ride to and from your event.

SUN The following precautions should be taken to prevent heat related illness:

• Drink plenty of fluids. Drink extra water even before you feel thirsty.

• Keep cool. Rest breaks are important and should be taken in the shade.

• Avoid sunburn — use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

• Remember, sunscreen will protect against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, but not from the heat.

• Keep an eye out for your friends by checking others for signs of heat-related illness.