An unusually high number of overdose-related emergency department visits has led to an opioid alert by the local substance abuse group.
The Windsor-Essex Community Opioid and Substance Strategy (WECOSS) reported 19 opioid overdoses between February 22 and February 28.
Sixteen of those visits involved fentanyl.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit tracks the number of overdoses in conjunction with organizations and agencies such as Windsor police, LaSalle police, the OPP, Windsor Regional Hospital, Erie Shores Healthcare, and Essex-Windsor EMS.
WECOSS has provided safety tips for those who use opioids, including a suggestion not to use alone, trying a small amount at first, not mixing substances, and having naloxone ready.
If something does not feel right, seek medical assistance or call 911 immediately.
