Puslinch firefighters now have access to naloxone kits for personal protection.
Puslinch Fire Chief Luis Gomes noted the department recently held a professional development training session at which a registered nurse spoke about opioid overdoses.
Gomes said while they may not be common in Puslinch, such overdoses are definitely growing in neighbouring communities.
“We had some concerns from our staff in regards to personal safety,” he said.
As a result, the nurse was able to provide a training session and supply naloxone kits to the staff.
Gomes stressed the kits are not for treating patients but for firefighters’ “own personal protection.” Asked for clarification, Gomes explained the kits are for firefighters exposed to opioids during a call.
Gomes said firefighters were starting to bring their own kits to the fire hall, so, “We thought we better formalize this in a training session.” He noted firefighters are required to provide a health card to obtain a kit.
Gomes said the biggest concern is residences, but he noted, “When there is a car accident you don’t necessarily know what is in the vehicle.”
He explained vehicle air bags often contain powder that looks similar to powdered fentanyl.
Gomes added the naloxone kits provide a window of opportunity for the firefighter of 20 to 90 minutes – and the person would still be required to go to hospital if affected.
“As far as patient care, what we are trained to do is to do respiratory management using a valve mask, until paramedics arrive, who would decide the treatment option,”said Gomes.
Councillor Susan Fielding agreed “everyone needs to protect themselves.”
