Due to some recent incidents in some surrounding jurisdictions the Elmira Police Department would like to remind individuals to be safe when using cannabis vapes. The prevalence of Fentanyl being added to commonly used illegal substances has risen over recent years. Individuals 20 years of age or younger are prohibited from possessing and/or using cannabis.
The Elmira Police Department cautions individuals from purchasing and using products such as cannabis vapes, edibles or fake pills from places that are not licensed due to the risks associated with unregulated products. These illicit products could contain deadly substances, including Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid.
Also, knowing the signs of an overdose could be critical in saving the life of someone overdosing. Some of these signs being:
• Slow or no breathing
• Unresponsiveness
• Pinpoint pupils
• Cold, clammy skin
• Blue lips and/or nails
• Slow heartbeat
If you suspect someone is overdosing call 911 immediately and administer Narcan if
available. Every second counts as time is critical in these instances.
Below is a link to the Casa-Trinity Harm Reduction Education and Offerings web page. Being that the recent incidents seem to involve underage individuals this website can provide good information for parents when discussing the dangers of using some of these unregulated products.
https://casa-trinity.org/prevention/harm-reduction-education-and-offerings/