Police Report Spike In Drug Overdoses In Plymouth County

Plymouth County officials are warning of a spike in drug overdoses throughout the county during the first 19 days of December.

So far in December alone, thirteen fatal overdoses have been documented — more than any other month this year, according to Plymouth County Outreach.

"PCO and its partners want the public, especially individuals at risk for overdose and their families and friends, to be aware of the increased risk of an overdose and what action they can take," Plymouth County Outreach said in a news release. "The holidays are a difficult time for many, and PCO wants community members to know that they are not alone."

According to the organization, anyone using any substance purchased off the street is at risk of an overdose. PCO said it suspects that Fentanyl is being mixed with other non-opioid substances such as cocaine and street pills marked as Xanax.

In addition, PCO reported a growing concern about an animal tranquilizer, xylazine, being found in the illicit drug supply. The drug does not respond to the life-saving opioid overdose drug Narcan.

PCO is warning the public to be aware of the signs of a drug overdose, including:

• Breathing is very slow and shallow, erratic, or has stopped
• Face very pale
• Cool, clammy skin
• Choking sounds or a gurgling noise (death rattle)
• Pulse (heartbeat) is slow and erratic or has stopped
• Blue/gray skin tinge – usually lips and fingers show first, sometimes in tips of ears
• Loss of consciousness-passing out
• Body becomes very limp

Call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose.

For support, contact the Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline at 800-327-5050 or helplinema.org.

If you or a loved one is at risk of an overdose and looking to access treatment, reach out to your local Plymouth County Police Department and ask to speak with a Plymouth County Outreach Officer, contact PCO through its website at plymouthcountyoutreach.org/connect, or call 774-434-5072.