Vancouver fire crews responded to more than 6,000 overdose calls this year
VANCOUVER, B.C. — Firefighters have responded to more than 6,000 overdose calls this year, a 28 per cent increase over last year with a month remaining in 2017.
Mayor Gregor Robertson says the numbers highlight the magnitude of the “horrific” opioid crisis that is tearing through the city, province and country.
The city says the high volume of calls is putting a continued strain on services and front-line workers.
Last week alone, Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services responded to 81 overdose calls, while Vancouver police reported five suspected overdose deaths.