Photo by Yamhill County in Oregon Narcan is sprayed up the nose of an opioid overdose victim, restoring breathing and other functions in moments.

The Reedley Police Department announced on social media that it will offer free Narcan nasal spray to help combat the effects of opioid overdoses in the Valley.

From March 1 through May 30, visitors will be able to receive two doses of Narcan, no questions asked, as supplies last.

Each dose of Narcan comes with an FAQ sheet and brief overview of how to use the medication effectively

Visitors can stop at the Reedley Police Department office located at 500 E. 11th Street in Reedley to receive the potentially life-saving nasal spray.

Narcan can help slow and temporarily reverse effects of narcotic overdoses caused by opioid medications as well as illegal substances such as heroin and fentanyl, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Narcan, also known as Naloxone, is not a cure-all remedy; the CDC recommends several steps to help someone suffering an overdose.

• Call 911 immediately.
•  
• Give naloxone as quickly as possible, if available. Do not wait for emergency workers to arrive before giving Naloxone.
•  
• Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
•  
• Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
•  
• Stay with the person until emergency workers arrive.

 

The initiative is designed to make the potentially life-saving medication accessible to all, including those who might not otherwise have access.

Questions about the distribution of Narcan can be directed to the Sequoia Safety Council at (559) 638-9995.