Mahoning County Public Health, in partnership with BrightView Recovery and the Youngstown City Health District, will host a drive-thru event on Thursday, December 5th, to distribute free naloxone and fentanyl test strips to the community.

The event will take place from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Eugenia Atkinson Recreation Center at 903 Otis Street in Youngstown.

Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. When administered during an overdose, naloxone blocks the effects of opioids on the brain, restoring breathing. It is a safe and non-addictive medication with no potential for abuse. Even if administered to someone not experiencing an overdose, naloxone is harmless.

In nearly 40% of overdose deaths, a bystander was present, and having naloxone available could have made a difference, according to a news release.

Attendees will receive a free naloxone kit after taking part in a brief training session. The training will cover topics including identifying risk factors for opioid overdose, recognizing the signs of overdose, calling emergency medical services, administering naloxone nasally, and monitoring the person until help arrives.

Naloxone and fentanyl test strips can also be obtained online at www.mahoninghealth.org/project-dawn/.