Oceanside to host overdose prevention seminar

To help save lives and combat the heroin epidemic, Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced on September 29 several free overdose prevention seminars for residents, including one that will be hosted by Oceanside Middle School on Thursday, Nov. 20.

During the seminars, people will learn how to administer the lifesaving antidote known as Narcan, which that can reverse the fatal effects of an Opioid overdose. Residents can also learn about the warning signs of drug addiction and available treatment options, as well as hear personal stories of recovery.

The first seminar is scheduled for Oct. 7, at the Valley Stream American Legion Hall on Roosevelt Avenue. The third seminar will be on Dec. 4, at Floral Park Memorial High School.

While Narcan has been utilized by emergency medical technicians for decades, a State law allows ordinary citizens to administer it in an emergency situation in attempt to save a life, without fear of liability. Since Nassau County became a state-certified Overdose Responder program in September 2012, officials have trained more than 2,200 citizens, including family members of those addicted to drugs. Narcan, administered through a nasal spray, is provided at no charge to those over the age of 18 who complete the training, thanks to the state health department. Training is provided by the Nassau County Department of Human Services - Office of Mental Health, Chemical Dependency & Developmental Disabilities Services’ (OMHCDDDS) Behavioral Health Awareness Campaign.