Framingham Police: Please Call 9-1-1 During An Overdose

Framingham Police asked to the media to publish a press release encouraging citizens to call 9-1-1 during an overdose.

Massachusetts is one of 14 states and The District of Columbia that has a 911 Good Samaritan Law.

On August 2, 2012, the 911 Good Samaritan law was passed along with laws expanding prescribing and administration of Naloxone (Narcan), a medication used to reverse an opioid overdose.

“To encourage people to call 911 during an overdose, this law protects people from prosecution for possession of controlled substances when calling 911 in the event of a medical emergency. This can help save lives and give people who use opioids a chance to get help for their addiction. The chance of surviving an overdose depends greatly on how fast one receives medical assistance. However, the fear of involvement with law enforcement makes many people afraid to call 911,”stated the press release.

During an opioid overdose a person becomes unconscious and unresponsive.

The individual will not respond to being called or a sternal rub. The individual may also begin to turn blue from a lack of oxygen or make snoring or gurgling sounds.

If you see these symptoms, we urge you to call 911 immediately and perform rescue breathing.

This Good Samaritan Law protects people from being arrested for possession of a controlled substance, said Framingham Police.

The Law does not interfere with law enforcement securing the scene at an overdose. It does not prevent prosecution for selling drugs, trafficking drugs or outstanding warrants and will not interfere with police questioning, added Framingham Police.