DeRiggi-Whitton Hosts Opiate Overdose Prevention Training - May 16

Unfortunately, the growing problem with heroin and other opioid addiction and deaths has become all too familiar in the news and in our communities. Since opiate usage often starts in pill form, teens experiment with it, not thinking they’ll become addicted so easily. Because heroin is stronger and easier to find than pills, many quickly gravitate to this drug that is cheaper than a pack of cigarettes to buy.

Opiate usage, addiction and deaths know no social or economic barrier. While the war against usage and addiction continues to be waged, receiving Narcan training and having a kit on hand can mean the difference between life and death of a loved one or stranger. The nasal mist is easy to administer and the Good Samaritan law indemnifies anyone trying to save a life from legal repercussions.

“Through these training sessions and other meetings, I have met many people whose children are or were good students from nurturing families who became addicted to heroin too easily,” County Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton said. “They all say, ‘If it happened in my family, it can happen in anyone’s.’”

Hosted at Manorhaven Village Hall, County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton is sponsoring a Narcan education and training session on Tuesday, May 16 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at 33 Manorhaven Boulevard, Port Washington. “I wish to thank Manorhaven Mayor Jim Avena and his staff for generously offering the use of their village hall for this critical meeting,” DeRiggi-Whitton added.

Anyone 18 or older can register for the training, which also covers warning signs of drug addiction. There is no fee for the training, but attendees must pre-register online at nassaucountyny.gov/overdosetraining.

(Photo: Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton during a 2016 Narcan training session.)