Swampscott Police Going Purple For Drug Overdose Awareness Day

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — The home of the Swampscott men and women in blue will be donning purple on Tuesday as part of International National Drug Overdose Awareness Day.

Swampscott police said the station will display purple ribbons to "remember those who have died, strive to eliminate overdose, reduce the stigma of addiction and recognize the heartache of the family and friends affected by drug-related overdose."

Swampscott police said they track drug overdose incidents in the town and that there have been 106 since 2015, including 17 fatalities. Police said there have been 43 successful life-saving first-responder interventions with the use of Narcan.

"If you, a loved one, or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please know that Swampscott police are able to provide resources to help with recovery and build a stronger, safer community," police said.

Residents in need of counseling service or assistance with a drug-related issue can call 781-595-1111 for help.

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(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem andn Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)