Urgent: 1,600 Naloxone Kits Distributed to Prince George Campuses

UPDATE: The provincial government of British Columbia has just announced the distribution of 1,600 naloxone kits to all public post-secondary institutions and First Nations-mandated institutions in Prince George. This urgent initiative aims to combat the rising incidence of drug overdoses as students return to campus for the fall semester.

The naloxone kits will be available at various on-campus locations, including designated cabinets, student health buildings, and residential facilities. They will be strategically placed near emergency phones and automated external defibrillators, ensuring swift access to this life-saving medication during a crisis.

Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills Minister Jessie Sunner emphasized the critical nature of this initiative. “Every life lost to the toxic-drug crisis is a profound tragedy for our communities,” Sunner stated. “I expect all public post-secondary institutions to take steps to protect students.” This proactive measure comes in the wake of the increasing number of overdoses linked to drugs laced with fentanyl.

The distribution of these kits is part of a broader effort by the Overdose Prevention and Response Steering Committee, which was established following the tragic death of University of Victoria student Sidney McIntyre-Starko in May 2024. McIntyre-Starko’s overdose, along with two other students, underscored the urgent need for enhanced campus safety protocols and overdose-prevention resources.

Cindy Heitman, president and CEO of the College of New Caledonia, highlighted the importance of having these resources readily available. “At CNC, safety is a shared responsibility, and prevention is one of our strongest tools,” she said. Heitman added that by ensuring naloxone kits are accessible and training security teams, they are taking essential steps to protect their community.

The University of Northern BC has also received support, with a total of 38 naloxone kits (equating to 76 doses) and 19 cabinets on campus. President Geoff Payne affirmed the institution’s commitment to safety, stating, “Thanks to the support of the provincial government, nasal naloxone kits are available across our campuses, creating a safer environment for everyone.”

As students return to their campuses, the impact of this initiative will be closely monitored. The ongoing work of the overdose prevention steering committee will continue to refine and enhance the strategies for overdose prevention, ensuring that educational institutions can respond effectively in emergencies.

This critical response by the provincial government is a crucial step toward safeguarding the lives of students, echoing the urgent need for comprehensive drug prevention resources in educational settings across the province. As the situation develops, communities are urged to stay informed and engaged in these vital efforts.