Lifesaving Narcan Available Throughout Franklin Lakes

From Ellen Trotta Carmody

Franklin Lakes Addiction and Recovery Advisor

An mentioned in a recent Latest Buzz, the Borough of Franklin Lakes is working to keep the town safe from the opioid epidemic which is killing over 100,000 Americans per year. In 2022, Bergen County law enforcement deployed Narcan, which reversed the effects of an opioid overdose, 376 times, saving 256 lives. Unfortunately, 186 lives were lost. 

In September 2023, Bergen County announced an initiative to distribute Narcan (Nalaxone) to all 62 Bergen County facilities, at no cost to taxpayers. On June 6, 2024, the Borough passed a similar resolution (Resolution 227-24). I am happy to report that nine Narcan cabinets containing lifesaving Narcan have been installed throughout town, near existing AED (automated external defibrillator) boxes.
 

Narcan cabinets with FREE doses of Narcan.

Location of Narcan (Naloxone) Cabinets

in Franklin Lakes:

 

  • Borough Hall
  • DPW
  • Bender Court Fire Headquarters
  • Library
  • Municipal Field Snack Stand
  • Police Department
  • Recreation Building
  • Southside Firehouse
  • Old Mill Tennis Courts
 
 

Narcan (Naloxone) Administration

On July 16, 2024, twenty (20) Borough employees and volunteers were trained on administering Narcan. They learned about opioids, addiction and fake “pressed pills” resembling real prescription medication, but actually containing deadly doses of fentanyl. This epidemic is killing 300 Americans a day and having Narcan readily available throughout our town, enables YOU to save a life! 

Signs/symptoms of an opioid overdose include: 

  • Unresponsiveness
  • Blue skin
  • Slow/shallow breathing
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Confusion

How to Administer Narcan:

Narcan is a very easy nasal spray to administer and rapidly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. If you suspect an opioid overdose, administer the first nasal spray dose of Narcan and dial 911.
 

Some Questions & Answers (Q&A): 

Q:  If an overdose is suspected and Narcan is administered, will it hurt the person if he/she is not having an opioid overdose? 

A: No, if no opioids were involved, Narcan will not harm the person, it just won’t have any effect. 

Q: Is there liability if I administer Narcan? 

A:  No, we in NJ are protected by the Good Samaritan Law, which is designed to encourage individuals to seek medical assistance for drug overdoses without fear of legal repercussions. 

Q: What is the expiration dating for Narcan? 

A:  Typically a few years from date of manufacture. The initial doses of Narcan in Franklin Lakes Narcan cabinets’ dating is 11/26 and 12/26. The manufacturer of Narcan states it can by be administered one year past expiration and boxes will be monitored by town employees. 

Q:  What is Narcan’s temperature range? 

A: 36 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Q:  Must I call 911 if I encounter someone in need of help? 

A:  YES, you must administer the first nasal spray dose of Narcan, then dial 911. The effects of Narcan can wear off more quickly than the effects of opioids, so it’s important to call for medical assistance. 
 
 

REACH (REducing Addiction through Care and Help)

REACH’s Addiction and Recovery Advisor

As the Borough of Franklin Lakes REACH’s Addiction and Recovery Advisor, I am available, on a strictly confidential basis, to assist residents who are in crisis and need help navigating the many resources available to help.

Ellen Trotta Carmody

Cell: 201-466-1408   

reach@franklinlakes.org