The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office has equipped its officers with Narcan.
Deputies have been trained in administering a single dose nasal spray, for when they think a person is having an opioid related drug overdose. Deputies were also trained to make sure follow-up medical care is given to the patient.
"Heroin is devastating to users, their families, their friends, and to communities. Our deputies have been to many overdose situations, and have seen these devastating effects first hand. By equipping our Deputies with Narcan, they have one more tool in their tool belt to potentially help families in saving their loved ones," said Sheriff John Matz.
The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department is the first law enforcement agency in the county to carry Narcan.
Deputies who have assignments outside of the Sheriff's Office have all been issued individual doses of Narcan to use in the field.
In addition, Deputies in the jail have also been trained in the use of Narcan, and have ready access to the medication should the need arise.
