Bethel Police Equips Community With Life-saving Overdose Kits

According to the Bethel Police Department, local officers recently took part in opioid overdose response training with the Western Connecticut Coalition, an organization doing critical work throughout our community.

As part of this training, BPD received Opioid Overdose Rescue Kits that include naloxone (Narcan), along with fentanyl and xylazine test strips. These tools are proven to save lives. Naloxone can reverse an opioid overdose, and the test strips help reduce the risk of accidental overdose by identifying the presence of fentanyl before use.

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BPD also stressed that these kits aren’t just for people actively using drugs, but for friends, family members, and anyone who wants to be prepared in an emergency. Officers said having naloxone and test strips readily available can give someone the chance to act quickly before first responders arrive, and that even one prepared bystander can make a life-saving difference.

BPD says that if you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, having these tools on hand can make a life-saving difference. The department also emphasized that addiction does not discriminate—it affects individuals and families from all walks of life.

To help reduce harm and support the community, BPD is making these rescue kits available free of charge to the public at the dispatch window at Bethel Police Headquarters, with no questions asked.

The Bethel Police Department added that looking out for one another is a key part of keeping the community safe, and they want residents to know that help, education, and resources are available.

For additional support and local resources, visit the Western Connecticut Coalition at https://www.wctcoalition.org/.