'It will save lives:' Regina firefighters join fight against opioid overdoses

Fire trucks, hoses and now a life-saving drug – Regina firefighters have a new tool in their arsenal to keep people safe.

They will be able to administer Naloxone, a nasal spray used to block the effects of opioid drugs like fentantyl.

“Everyone knows the devastating impact fentanyl and other opioids are having on families across Canada and we’re taking steps in Regina to help combat this public health crisis,” Fire Chief Ernie Polsom said in a news release Thursday.

The drug will be added to Regina Fire and Protective Service’s vehicle fleet, complementing other life-saving devices like Automated External Defibrillators.

Polsom said all Regina firefighters are trained to administer Naloxone to “enhance (Regina Fire) service to the public, as well as ensure our firefighters are protected in the event they come into contact with an opioid in the performance of their duties.”