New Overdose Text Alert System Launched in Montgomery County
The Community Overdose Action Team is proud to launch the OD Surge Alert system today, which is designed to help decrease the number of people dying from overdoses in Montgomery County. The system alerts subscribers when there is a surge in overdoses in Montgomery County by sending a text message. Public Health - Dayton & Montgomery County’s epidemiology department monitors reports of overdoses in Montgomery County 24/7, from hospitals and many fire departments, and calculates whether there are more overdoses than expected within a given time period. If an alert is triggered, a warning message will be sent via text to individuals who have registered to receive the alerts. The alerts will contain information and tips about how to keep safe during the surge. The tips will include action items such as a reminder to have Narcan available and to never use drugs alone.
The system is designed so anyone can register for the alerts. In addition to individuals who may be using drugs, we encourage their family, friends, loved ones, community support systems, and treatment providers to also register to receive these vital life-saving alerts.
To register, you do not need to live in Montgomery County, however the alerts will only be for events that take place in Montgomery County. To register for the alerts, text your five-digit zip code to 937-582-8667. Or visit mccoat.org for more information.
“The OD Surge Alert system will provide timely information when conditions are occurring that make using drugs even more risky than usual,” said Casey Smith, Program Manager, Community Overdose Action Team. “We know how important an individual’s support system can be and we want to do everything possible to help them have the information they need.”
How the System Works
Any individual can sign up to receive overdose alerts via a text message. To register for the alerts, text your five-digit zip code to 937-582-8667. When an overdose spike occurs, individuals who signed up for alerts will receive a text message with the alert and a link to a page on the www.mccoat website with information about actions they can take and resources available in the community. Alerts may occur after hours including evenings and weekends. Because of the nature of the surveillance systems, alerts will be county-wide; all individuals who sign up for alerts will receive text alerts anytime there has been deemed to be a concerning increase in Montgomery County.
While there is no safe way to use illegal drugs, it is important that those using drugs, their friends and family, and the public are aware of steps they can take to help reduce the risk of death.
Safety recommendations for people who use drugs:
- Have Narcan available, and someone who can administer it, in case of an overdose. Call 937-734-9468 to get a kit today.
- Do not use drugs that contain or may contain fentanyl.
- Do not use drugs alone.
- Do not share needles.
- In the event of an overdose, call 911 immediately.
- For individuals experiencing addiction and in need of immediate care, contact OneFifteen’s Crisis Stabilization Unit at 937-535-5115.
- Call Crisis Now, 24/7 at 833-580-CALL for crisis intervention services.
The Community Overdose Action Team was established to address the drug overdose and addiction crisis in Montgomery County. The goal is to reduce the number of people dying from drug overdoses and drug abuse. Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health Services, Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County, and Montgomery County Administration are lead agencies in the effort to combat the epidemic.
