Life Saving Narcan Offered For Free At Upcoming Training

MERRIFIELD, VA—As the opioid epidemic remains growing concern in Fairfax County and across the U.S., a local program is offering chances for residents to get the life saving tools against overdoses. Free Narcan, or the drug that reverses opioid overdoses, will be available for free at a training 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16 at the Merrifield Center.

Residents can learn to administer Naloxone, what to do and not to do in an overdose emergency, how to administer the lifesaving medication and what to do afterward during the free, one-hour REVIVE training. Attendees also get a safety plan to help individuals prevent overdose if they relapse.

The Jan. 16 session will be an opportune time to get all of the necessary supplies. Typically attendees receive supplies used to administer Narcan except the medication itself. The state also allows anyone to purchase Narcan without a prescription at pharmacies.

Classes are held in Room LL-419/425 Lower Level East at the Merrifield Center. Advance registration is not required, but RSVPs are encouraged. RSVP to Lauren Krause Nickum, 703-352-3431. Classes are held monthly.

Local organizations provide resources and education on the opioid epidemic in light of rising overdose numbers and six Fairfax County overdoses in one week back in December. The trainings were started as Fairfax County Community Services Board partnered with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and the Chris Atwood Foundation. See the full schedule for REVIVE trainings here.

The Merrifield Center, located at 8221 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax, can offer assistance finding treatment options by calling 703-573-5679. The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board also offers overdose resource cards. If you believe you or someone is overdosing, call 911 immediately.

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