Between Friday and Monday, Grande Prairie RCMP along with Alberta Health Services (AHS) EMS responded to approximately 14 overdose calls. Police investigation revealed a common trend of purple and pink colored pills suspected to be heroin.

Grande Prairie RCMP along with AHS, are cautioning individuals who engage in illegal drug use to exercise extreme caution when purchasing, and using illicit drugs.  With the rise of new and more dangerous drugs, it is crucial to understand the risks you are taking. The purity and potency of illegal substances is always a factor in overdoses.

Those engaging in illegal drug use are urged to take steps to reduce their risk of harm. Don't use alone and always carry a naloxone kit.

Individuals experiencing an overdose can show the following symptoms;

  • breathing slowly or not breathing at all
  • nails and/or lips are blue
  • choking or throwing up
  • making gurgling sounds
  • skin is cold and clammy

Naloxone kits are available at pharmacies, community clinics and emergency departments. Visit www.drugsafe.ca for a full list of locations as well as advice on how to spot an overdose and what to do.

If you suspect an individual is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. 

If you have any information that may assist police with these investigations, please contact the Grande Prairie RCMP at 780-830-5700 or your local police.  If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.p3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

Information provided by the Alberta RCMP.