Wellington North won’t stock township vehicles with Naloxone kits after all

KENILWORTH – Wellington North has decided against stocking its vehicles with Naloxone kits following a review.

Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that temporarily reverses the effects of opioid poisoning.

Councillor Steve McCabe previously asked staff to look at stocking the township’s vehicles and making the kits available to employees after attending an August drug poisoning awareness event. But the township found there’s no legal requirement for the municipality to provide kits in vehicles or workplaces, states a report to council. The kits would also have to be acquired privately.

Staff instead recommended employees who “are comfortable doing so” be allowed to obtain a personal kit and carry it with them.

“I wouldn’t want someone to be nervous or scared to use them, or administer it incorrectly,” McCabe said during an Oct. 5 council meeting.

According to Health Canada, Naloxone is safe for all ages, cannot be used improperly and does not create dependence. It comes in two forms: a nasal spray and an injectable.

Naloxone is available for free through the Sanguen Health Centre, Mount Forest Family Health Team and at most pharmacies. No prescription is needed.

Council voted in favour of allowing staff to supply and carry their own kits.

CAO Brooke Lambert said the township will offer regular training to staff on their use.

“I might actually want to take ... training, because I have one in my truck,” McCabe said.