Our Community continues to experience the impact of the toxic drug crisis, including several recent overdoses. We continue to operate under the State of Emergency declared by our Council in December 2024 to support public safety measures.
Recent losses are a reminder of the severity of this crisis and the need to come together and protect each other. We are sharing resources and contact information for anyone affected by the toxic drug crisis.
Connect with Háhalhi7iwan (Wellness), Harm Reduction and People Services on Wheels
If you are impacted by the toxic drug crisis, including experiencing grief or loss, we encourage you to reach out to our Háhalhi7iwan (Wellness) Department. Háhalhi7iwan offers therapy and counselling, weekly programming, including Wellness Wednesdays on the North Shore and in Squamish Valley.
Phone: 604-982-7816
Email: Wellness@squamish.net
Department support includes help to make your way into treatment and detox facilities.
Our current risk
Communities across B.C continue to be impacted by the toxic drug crisis. The unregulated drug supply has become increasingly unpredictable, with substances often containing unexpected and highly dangerous contaminants. This means anyone using unregulated substances may be at risk of drug poisoning.
Reducing our risk
- Carry Naloxone. Free Naloxone is available in the vending machine or front desk at 380 Welch Street, Unit 4.
- Avoid using alone. If possible, have someone nearby who can respond in an emergency. If you are alone, call the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677 or use the LifeGuard App.
- Know the signs of an overdose:
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Unresponsiveness
- Gurgling, choking or unusual snoring sounds
- Blue, grey or pale lips/fingertips
- In the case of an overdose: Call 911 immediately, administer naloxone if available and follow emergency instructions. Do not leave the person alone.
Weekly Community Drug Checking
Mondays (Mobile drug checking)
- Time: 1:30 – 3:30 pm
- Location: Squamish Valley
- Contact 604-982-7816 to arrange.
Wednesdays
- Time: 1:30 – 3:30 pm
- Location: Ikwiks and Kwumkwum (under Lion’s Gate bridge) , Capilano Reserve
Fridays
- Time: 1:30 – 3:30 pm
- Location: Lower Capilano Road and Lawa Road (next to Estítkw Place), Capilano Reserve