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The importance of overdose prevention in our community

August 12, 2025  |  light up purple, overdose, Prevention
overdose prevention

Overdose is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States, and communities like Warren and Clinton County are not immune to its impact. Substance use disorders affect people from all walks of life—neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family members. Each overdose death leaves a lasting ripple of grief, but the truth is that many overdoses can be prevented with awareness, preparation, and timely action. By understanding the warning signs and taking proactive steps, we can save lives and foster a healthier, safer community.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Overdoses can happen suddenly and without warning, but there are key signs to watch for. If someone appears unusually drowsy, has slow or irregular breathing, has pinpoint pupils, or becomes unresponsive, they may be experiencing an opioid overdose. In the case of stimulant overdoses, symptoms may include chest pain, rapid heartbeat, seizures, or extreme agitation. Recognizing these signs quickly is critical—minutes matter when it comes to overdose response.

Practical Tips for Preventing Overdose

Prevention starts with education and preparedness. In Warren and Clinton Counties, residents can reduce overdose risk by:

  1. Using medication as prescribed and storing it safely, away from children or others who may misuse it.

  2. Avoiding mixing substances, especially opioids with alcohol or sedatives, which greatly increase the risk of respiratory failure.

  3. Testing substances for fentanyl if they are obtained outside of a medical prescription—many local harm reduction programs provide free test strips.

  4. Never using alone—if possible, have someone nearby who can respond in case of an emergency.

Responding to an Overdose

If you suspect someone is overdosing, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if available. Naloxone (Narcan) is a safe, life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose within minutes. In Ohio, naloxone is available without a prescription at many pharmacies and through community organizations. After giving naloxone, continue to monitor breathing, perform rescue breathing or CPR if trained, and stay with the person until emergency services arrive.

Local Resources for Warren and Clinton County Residents

Residents of Warren and Clinton Counties have access to several overdose prevention resources. The Mental Health Recovery Board Serving Warren & Clinton Counties (www.mhrbwcc.org) provides information, education, and links to naloxone distribution sites. Local health departments and organizations like the Warren County Health District and Clinton County Health Department often offer free naloxone kits and training. Project DAWN (Deaths Avoided With Naloxone) programs are also active in the area, teaching community members how to recognize and respond to overdoses.

Working Together to Save Lives

 

Overdose prevention is a shared responsibility. By staying informed, reducing risk factors, and knowing how to respond, we can help protect our friends, families, and neighbors. Every life saved is an opportunity for recovery, hope, and healing. Whether it’s carrying naloxone, checking in on loved ones, or sharing prevention resources, your actions can make a real difference. Together, Warren and Clinton Counties can continue building a community where help is available, hope is possible, and lives are valued.