See a possible opioid overdose?
More than 105,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2023. Over 80% of deaths resulting from drug overdose involve opioids. Furthermore, three in five people whose drug overdose resulted in death, had an opportunity to be linked to care or life-saving actions.
In America, 40% of deaths occur while a bystander is present These deaths could have been avoided with proper education, higher awareness of Good Samaritan Laws and knowing what to do in response to an overdose.
Bystanders of an overdose may be afraid to call for help if someone around them is having an overdose. Do not let this fear keep you from saving a life. HB208, better known as Alabama’s Good Samaritan Law, addresses situations where acting in good faith could help to save someone in an overdose situation.
Read More About Alabama’s Good Samaritan LawsThe Alabama Legislature signed HB208 into law in 2015 and provided immunity for prescribing and administering an opioid antagonist, such as naloxone. This is commonly known as a “Good Samaritan Law”.
In 2016, HB379 was signed into law, providing the State Health Officer or a county health officer the authority to write a standing order for dispensing naloxone.
Naloxone is more readily available now to the community and First Responders, but bystanders may not call for help when they witness a possible overdose because they fear being held responsible or accused of related charges. Project FREEDOM works to encourage everyone to learn about Alabama’s Good Samaritan Laws and be prepared to help accordingly when someone is in need.
If you see someone experiencing the signs of an overdose, it is important to act quickly. First, call 911. If you have access to naloxone, now is the time to administer it. Try to keep the person awake and breathing. Lay him or her on their side to prevent choking and stay with them until emergency workers arrive.
