The yellow-shaded area on the map indicates the area affected by the overdose alert. (Image Credit: Alertable)

By battlefordsNOW staff

public safety

Overdose alert issued for Onion Lake Cree Nation after spike in cases

Apr 7, 2026 | 10:29 AM

A drug overdose alert was issued for Onion Lake Cree Nation and surrounding area after a significant increase in suspected overdoses over the 36 hours leading up to April 4.

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health (SHA) said Emergency Medical Services has reported more overdose incidents in the area, with multiple cases requiring naloxone. No fatalities have been reported.

“We do not have information on the substance involved; however, there is a concern that a potentially dangerous or contaminated batch may be circulating in the community and in the surrounding areas,” the SHA stated in a release.

The alert was issued to health-care providers, pharmacies, the local hospital emergency room, public health teams and residents by Indigenous Services Canada, the Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority and the community of Onion Lake Cree Nation.

Residents are being urged to avoid using unknown drugs and to follow harm-reduction measures, including not using alone, carrying naloxone and seeking immediate help in the event of an overdose.

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The SHA said outreach and support workers are available, including an on-call line at 306-344-7544. In emergencies, people are advised to call 911.

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The SHA noted that use of illegally acquired drugs poses health risks, including overdose and death. Some risks can be reduced, but not eliminated, by:

Getting a Take Home Naloxone Kit. Call HealthLine 811 to find locations.
Calling the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-NORS (6677) if you are alone.
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose or who witness an overdose.
Finding where to access drug checking supplies and/or services through www.saskatchewan.ca/overdose.
Sharing this alert.
For information on overdoses and additional resources, go to www.saskatchewan.ca/overdose.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

by battlefordsNOW staff

Overdose alert issued for Onion Lake Cree Nation after spike in cases

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