FREDERICK, Md. — Following a mass overdose event in Baltimore earlier this week, the City of Frederick is coordinating with state and local partners to reinforce preparedness and public safety measures related to the ongoing opioid crisis.
While the Baltimore incident occurred outside of Frederick’s jurisdiction, local officials say the regional nature of the epidemic warrants immediate attention. City, County, and State agencies have mobilized to ensure Frederick is equipped to respond should similar events occur.
“Our first responders are trained to manage these types of incidents and are equipped with life-saving tools, including naloxone (Narcan),” the Frederick Police Department said in a statement posted Thursday.
Free naloxone is available to the public at multiple self-service locations throughout Frederick City and County. Naloxone is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and is considered critical in harm-reduction strategies.
The City is working in coordination with the Frederick County Health Department to promote awareness and access to overdose prevention tools. Officials are urging residents to make use of the available resources.
Local emergency personnel continue to train for overdose response and maintain supply levels of naloxone and other emergency tools as part of their readiness efforts.