Police in Lancaster and Morecambe have been trained in the use of a life-saving spray to reverse the effects of a heroin, fentanyl or methadone overdose.
The force has joined multiple other UK police forces by rolling out training for using naloxone.
All officers and frontline staff are now trained in the use of naloxone as part of their first aid training, following which it’s optional if officers choose to carry it with them on duty.
All current officers have completed the training.
Opioid-related deaths make up the largest proportion of drugs-related deaths in the UK, with an average of 40 per week.
Lancashire Police have been working alongside partners The Calico Group and Change Grow Live (CGL) to pave the way for naloxone to be introduced in the county.
Chief Constable Sacha Hatchett said: “The safety and wellbeing of our community is always our top priority.
‘’I am proud that all of our frontline officers have now received training in the use of naloxone. This ensures that in those critical moments when every second counts, officers carrying naloxone are well equipped to take immediate action and potentially save lives.
“We remain committed to working alongside health partners and local services to respond swiftly and compassionately to those in crisis in our communities.”
Peter Furlong, National Harm Reduction Lead of Change Grow Live said: "It’s great news to hear of more police officers willing to carry naloxone, the main aim being to put this life-saving medicine in the hands of people likely to be first responders to overdose incidents.
‘’With more and more forces on board now across the country, it’s inevitable that more needless deaths will be avoided.”
Sarah Tattersall, Head of Operations of The Calico Group said: “This is about looking out for people in our communities.
‘’By working together, we’re helping officers feel ready to act in an emergency. It could be the moment that keeps someone alive until an ambulance arrives.”
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