Life-Saving Drug Rolled Out Across Devon & Cornwall Police Vehicles

Naloxone to help safeguard more vulnerable individuals at risk of overdose

Devon & Cornwall Police has begun rolling out the life-saving drug Naloxone across its Response and Neighbourhood Policing vehicles, aiming to protect vulnerable individuals who may be at risk of opioid overdoses. Starting from 1st October, over 400 kits containing Naloxone will be distributed, equipping officers to intervene in suspected overdose situations.

What is Naloxone?

Naloxone, a nasal spray, temporarily reverses the effects of opioid-based drugs. It’s crucial in situations where an opioid overdose is suspected, providing officers with a means to stabilise victims while waiting for medical professionals to arrive. This drug is intended for individuals aged 18 or over, and it is already in use by over half of UK police forces.

According to Superintendent Robert Youngman, the drug’s availability is a significant step forward in safeguarding vulnerable people. He noted that those who overdose may not always be aware they have consumed opiates or synthetic opiates.

New Kits To Be Used Across the Force Area

The Naloxone kits, which will be stored in first aid bags across the force’s marked vehicles, ensure that officers are prepared to assist across the entire region. Superintendent Youngman emphasised that the distribution of these kits is not limited to population-dense areas or regions with higher instances of avoidable drug-related deaths.

The new first aid kits will also include a Ten Second Triage system, designed to help officers prioritise victims in major traumatic incidents. This system was developed following the Manchester Arena bombing and features colour-coded wristbands to assist medics in identifying the most urgent cases.

Saving Lives, Not Replacing Paramedics

While the police are not looking to replace paramedics, the use of Naloxone is seen as a crucial tool in stabilising victims before medical help arrives. Superintendent Youngman stated, “Lives will be saved,” highlighting the critical role officers can play in overdose situations.

This roll-out comes as part of ongoing efforts by UK police forces to protect vulnerable individuals and reduce the number of avoidable drug-related deaths.

Photo: Ten Second Triage wristbands and “pebble” kit containing nasal Naloxone, First Aid bags awaiting collection