The Blood Ties Four Directions Centre plans to participate in International Overdose Awareness Day on Friday.

It’s a global campaign that raises awareness of overdose and works to reduce the stigma often associated with a drug-related death. International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message that overdose deaths are preventable.

“In recognition of this day, we will be hosting a free public naloxone training on the corner of Main and Front Street,” Blood Ties said Tuesday.

“At this event, information will be shared about how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose.

‘In the Yukon, we have lost 20 lives to overdose since 2016. Our goal is to train five people for every life lost – come join us and be one of the 100.”

Canada continues to experience a serious opioid crisis.

Statistics show that 4,460 deaths related to opioids occurred throughout Canada in 2018, meaning one life was lost every two hours. These data are from the Public Health Agency of Canada.

“The opioid crisis has had a devastating impact on families and communities across the country, including here in the Yukon,” Blood Ties said.

“By publicly talking about overdose and substance use, we hope to challenge stigma and raise awareness. Overdose deaths are preventable.”

Friday’s event will take place between 11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

Everyone is welcomed and encouraged to attend.

International Overdose Awareness Day originated in Melbourne, Australia in 2001.

The global campaign now sees more than 500 events held across the world. The day aims to:

• raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death;

• stimulate discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy;

• remember those who have died or suffered permanent injury due to drug overdose; and

• spread the message that overdose death is preventable.

Blood Ties is a charitable, non-profit organization. Its mission is to eliminate barriers and create opportunities for people to have equal access to health and wellness and to live in our community with dignity.

“Using a social determinants of health approach to our work, we promote awareness and prevention education for sexually-transmitted and blood-borne infections and provide support, housing, education, counselling and advocacy for people experiencing illicit drug use, homelessness, street involvement and addictions.

“We serve all Yukon communities.”