NARCAN (naloxone) is a life-saving medication designed to reverse opioid overdoses rapidly. With the ongoing opioid crisis affecting communities across the United States, making NARCAN widely accessible has become a crucial public health strategy.
The following are the key benefits of having NARCAN readily available in homes, public spaces, workplaces, and other community settings:
The most significant benefit of accessible NARCAN is its proven ability to save lives. When administered quickly during an opioid overdose, NARCAN can restore normal breathing within minutes. This immediate intervention can mean the difference between life and death, especially before emergency medical services arrive.
When NARCAN is available without a prescription and placed in easily accessible locations, bystanders, friends, and family members can act swiftly in an emergency. This reduces reliance on waiting for trained professionals and empowers everyday people to respond effectively in critical moments.
Access to NARCAN is a cornerstone of harm reduction. It helps reduce the negative consequences of drug use while connecting individuals to further support and treatment. Making NARCAN available does not encourage drug use; instead, it acknowledges the reality of opioid misuse and aims to minimize preventable deaths.
Widespread distribution of NARCAN promotes education about opioid overdose risks and responses. Training community members to recognize overdose symptoms and use NARCAN fosters a culture of preparedness and compassion, reducing stigma around addiction and encouraging collective responsibility.
When community members can administer NARCAN before first responders arrive, it alleviates some pressure on emergency services and healthcare systems. Early intervention can decrease the severity of medical complications, potentially reducing hospital stays and associated costs.
Individuals at risk of opioid overdose, including those prescribed opioid medications, people with substance use disorders, and their loved ones, benefit directly from easier access to NARCAN. Ready availability can provide peace of mind to families and caregivers, knowing they have a tool to respond in a crisis.
Making NARCAN accessible in a variety of settings is a practical, effective measure that saves lives, empowers communities, and supports public health. By reducing opioid overdose fatalities and encouraging responsible emergency response, NARCAN access represents a vital component in addressing the opioid epidemic.
Here in Kenosha County, NARCAN is free and available 24/7 at several public health vending machines:
- Hope Council on Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse, 6103 39th Ave, Kenosha (outside, 24/7)
- The Sharing Center, 25700 Wilmot Rd, Trevor (outside, 24/7)
- WIC Office, 2000 63rd St, Kenosha (outside, 24/7)
Additionally, the Kenosha County Job Center, 8600 Sheridan Rd, Kenosha, provides access during business hours, Monday–Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
About the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition
The Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition (KCSAC) mission is to improve treatment and reduce alcohol and other drug abuse in our community by supporting networking, encouraging education, exploring gaps, and realizing solutions.
KCSAC is comprised of 15 local organizations, agencies, and individuals who are all focused on supporting our community.
