Battlefords RCMP is warning people about a new strain of fentanyl now circulating in the Battlefords area (file photo/batllefordsNOW.com).

By battlefordsNOW Staff

DANGEROUS DRUG

RCMP warn of new type of fentanyl circulating in the Battlefords area

Nov 10, 2022 | 4:57 PM

Battlefords RCMP is warning the public that a new type of fentanyl is now in the Battlefords area. Fentanyl is often mixed in with other illegal street drugs and can be deadly even in small quantities.

Police came across the fentanyl after being called to a disturbance at a business in North Battleford on Oct. 11. They arrested a man from Edmonton on a Canada-wide warrant and seized 24 grams of cocaine, along with 22 grams of what they suspected to be fentanyl.

After sending the suspected fentanyl for analysis, RCMP can now confirm it is a type of fentanyl that has not been seen in the Battlefords before. RCMP can’t comment on how strong or lethal this strain is, but is issuing an alert about the dangers of fentanyl given it is new to the area.

In a media release sent out Friday afternoon, RCMP says even a few grains of the drug can be deadly.

“Fentanyl is a very potent opioid pain reliever. It can take many forms: a colourful powder, chunks, pills, or patches. The fentanyl seized as part of this investigation was a brown powder.”

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RCMP are urging anybody who believes they may have fentanyl to contact them. Police have special equipment they can use to handle and test for the drug.

Police urge everyone to know the signs of an overdose and if you see somebody you think is suffering from an overdose, call 911 right away. RCMP says the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose, including the person experiencing an overdose.

According to the media release, some of the signs of an overdose to look for are

• Slow, weak or no breathing
• Blue lips or nails
• Dizziness and confusion
• Can’t be woken up
• Choking, gurgling or snoring sounds
• Drowsiness or difficulty staying awake

Emergency responders including police carry Naloxone, a drug that in many instances can quickly reverse the effects of an overdose. Naloxone is also available to anybody free of charge.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW