Think Heroin Can't Touch Your Life? Think Again

MANCHESTER, NJ -- If a family member or friend was using heroin, would you know it?

If you thought your neighbor was selling heroin, would you know what to do?

The Manchester Township Police Department and the Manchester Township Board of Education are hosting a Heroin Awareness presentation that aims to answer these questions and many more.

The presentation is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 27, in the gym at Manchester Township High School, 101 South Colonial Dr. It is open to the entire community, according to a news release, and "all from the community are encouraged to attend this important presentation."

“We are optimistic that this presentation will provide the community with a better understanding of the epidemic use of heroin within Manchester Township and the surrounding areas," Police Chief Lisa Parker said. "Our goal is to educate students, teachers, parents, family members and the community so together we can make a difference."

"It’s not just about arresting addicts; it’s about preventative education as well,” Parker said.

The presentation will be given by the Manchester Police Narcotics Enforcement Team. It is designed for someone who has little to no knowledge of heroin use/abuse, and it keys in on common warning signs to determine if a relative/friend may be using heroin. Other topics that will be discussed are as follows:

• Just how bad is the heroin problem in Manchester?
• How does a person get addicted to heroin?
• Why is the heroin epidemic growing?
• What is heroin? What does heroin look like?
• Methods of heroin use
• Signs of heroin use
• Treatment options
• What is Narcan and how does it work?
• Overdose Prevention Act
• I think my neighbor is dealing drugs, what should I do?
• Methods of reporting drug activity
• I have a family member that I suspect may be using. What can I do?
• What is the Manchester Police Department doing about this problem?

A public question-and-answer period will follow the presentation and narcotics officers will also be available after the program.

Any questions about the presentation can be directed to Sgt. James Komsa at 732-657-2009, Ext. 4220, or via email at jkomsa@manchestertwp.com.

(Photo via Shutterstock)