In February 2018, TFD pioneered a community distribution program of free “rescue kits” containing the life-saving medication, Narcan, packaged as an easy-to-administer, fast-acting nasal spray. The goal of rescue kits is to reduce morbidity and mortality in the community. Currently, we distribute an average of one rescue kit per week.

Also provided in the kit is:
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Literature on how to recognize an opioid overdose.
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Information on how to connect the person to treatment services.
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Direction on how to obtain a replacement kit.
The current funding for TFD’s opioid rescue kits is from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and is facilitated by the University of Washington’s Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute and the Dave Purchase Project (formerly Tacoma Needle Exchange).
Recently the distribution program has expanded to the Pierce County Jail. Narcan will be provided for staff in their booking area, transport vehicles and mail processing room.
For additional information about the program, please contact TFD paramedic, Kurt Gordon at kgordon@cityoftacoma.org.