Franklin Police Officers now carrying life-saving medication to treat opioid overdose

Tomorrow is International Overdose Awareness Day (#IOAD17). In addition to taking time to remember community members lost to an overdose, Franklin Police Officers are being equipped with Narcan (the prescription medication Naloxone). A metered dose of the nasal spray medication can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Franklin Police purchased 168 doses of the medication at a cost of approximately $6,300.

“A Franklin Police Officer who encounters a member of our community who is suffering from an opioid overdose might now be able to help save their life,” said Chief Deborah Faulkner. “Officers from across the country have fallen victim, themselves, after unknowingly coming into contact with dangerous substances while conducting an investigation. This medication could help save the life of one of our police officers, as well.”

In addition to officers carrying this medication in the field, several doses have been distributed to known-risk area work stations throughout Franklin Police Headquarters, such as the Lab and Evidence. Officers are required to undergo special training before they are issued the life-saving nasal spray.

###