Officials issue overdose spike notice for Bonneville County

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — A spike in drug overdoses has officials issuing an overdose spike notice for Bonneville County.

In a social media post, the Eastern Idaho Public Health and Safety Team reported a spike in overdoses across eastern Idaho within the last 48 hours.

Officials are encouraging residents to lock up prescription and over-the-counter medications and safely dispose of unused or expired medications.

Officials also stressed the importance of carrying naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, which can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Free Narcan boxes are available through the Center for Hope in Idaho Falls and Rexburg.

“If you suspect an overdose, call 911 right away, even if you administer naloxone,” officials said in the alert.

The alert also encouraged the public to “check in with friends and family,” especially if they are concerned about someone.

Recovery and support services are also available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or HELP4U, a free confidential substance use treatment referral service. Residents can text their five-digit ZIP code to 435748 (HELP4U) to access services.

The Eastern Idaho Public Health and Safety Team includes the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, Bonneville County Coroner’s Office, Idaho Falls Police Department, Idaho Falls Fire Department, Idaho State Police and Eastern Idaho Public Health. The group regularly meets to monitor overdose trends and work to reduce overdose deaths in the community.

More information can be found on the EIPH website