B.C. to use bikes, ATVs to fight drug overdoses in hard to reach areas
VANCOUVER — Paramedics will use bicycles and all-terrain vehicles in high-overdose areas to respond to a worsening opioid crisis in British Columbia, the province’s health minister says.
“Over the last week, B.C. had the highest number of overdose-related 911 calls ever recorded,” Terry Lake said Friday, adding bikes and ATVs will be used in locations where ambulances are difficult to navigate.
Lake also announced a $5-million funding boost for health emergency services and said medical-support units will be placed in some high overdose locations including the Downtown Eastside in Vancouver and in Surrey.
“These special units will act as a resupply station for paramedics, as well as provide care information and triage for those using drugs,” he said in a statement.