Overdose prevention and response

Services and information topics

Decriminalizing people who use drugs in B.C.

Adults in B.C. are not subject to criminal charges for the personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Health Canada granted an exemption from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to the Province of B.C. from January 31, 2023 until January 31, 2026.

What you need to know

Drug-related overdoses and deaths have become a very serious concern all across the country. Find out how to avoid and react to overdose. 

Lethal drugs

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is contributing to the increase in opioid overdoses across B.C. Find out what it is and why it’s dangerous to all British Columbians.

Get a naloxone kit

Naloxone can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Find out how it works and where it’s available.

Reducing stigma

Overdoses are having a ripple effect across B.C. From families to first responders, friends and loved ones, everyone has a story.

Talking to youth

Parents can play a key part in teaching their children about substance use by talking honestly and openly about the effects of substances and giving answers they’ll understand. 

Mobile response team

The Mobile Response Team provides support, education and training to help address the psychosocial toll of the overdose crisis.