One month after opening, Island Health says the safe consumption site on Pandora has been effective at preventing overdose deaths.
Manager of harm reduction and early treatment, Mary Morrison said using a safe consumption site drastically reduces the odds of an overdose death.
“We have responded to about 50 overdoses with no fatalities,” Morrison said. “I think we’re doing as well as we can be in terms of doing our part in encouraging people to be safe in their substance use.”
Morrison said the nurses on site also can provide referrals to treatment, counselling and education to ensure safer drug consumption.
The site also conducted a survey of the visitors to choose a name, and after reviewing the feedback the site has been named "The Harbour."
Island Health said The Harbour has seen 3,378 visits since it opened, and is now averaging 158 visits per day.