Preliminary data from the BC Coroners Service said toxic illicit drugs led to 195 British Columbians dying in May. .“After a catastrophic 2021, I am saddened to report we are, once again, on pace to lose a record number of our community members,” said BC Coroners Service Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe in a Thursday press release. .“The illicit drug supply in this province continues to be volatile and inconsistent, and presents a significant risk to anyone who uses drugs.”.The press release said at least 940 people died from toxic drugs in British Columbia between January and May, a record number for the first five months of the calendar year..Following two months of a small decline, the 195 recorded deaths in May is the largest number ever for this calendar month and is a 20% increase over the 162 deaths reported in April. .The total number of deaths in May averages out to about 6.3 deaths per day..According to the press release, enhanced toxicological testing confirmed the severe toxicity of the drug supply. Results from enhanced testing protocols found about 91% of submitted samples have fentanyl in them, 73% detected a stimulant, 19% detected an opioid, and 44% identified a benzodiazepine..Illicit drug toxicity is the leading cause of unnatural death in British Columbia. .Lapointe called every life lost to a drug overdose “a preventable tragedy.” She said some actions that can be taken to combat drug overdoses are creating a safer drug supply, developing action plans to prevent these deaths, and producing a framework for a substance-use system of care. .“I strongly urge those purchasing illicit substances to take every available precaution to protect yourself,” she said. .“Please start with a small amount of the drug, and make sure someone is present who can provide naloxone and call for emergency assistance if you experience a negative effect.”.This announcement comes after British Columbia said it will decriminalize drug possession for three years. .READ MORE: BC to decriminalize small possession of illicit drugs.The Canadian government made the announcement on May 31. Effective next year, British Columbians can carry up to 2.5 grams of opioids, methamphetamine, and cocaine without fearing criminal penalties..The exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act will last from Jan. 31, 2023 to Jan. 31, 2026, throughout the entire province..The Alberta government announced in 2021 it's starting to test a drug app users can access if they are having an overdose..READ MORE: Alberta government to test drug overdose prevention app.Called Digital Overdose Response System (DORS), it's designed to protect drug users while alone in their homes..“Launching this app is another important step in building a full recovery-oriented continuum of care for addiction treatment in the province,” said Alberta Mental Health and Addictions Associate Minister Jason Luan.
