Clay County sheriff’s deputies will soon begin carrying Narcan, a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
Sheriff Brandon Boone said he hopes it will save lives.
“Often we are first responders on calls for EMS, we’re the first to arrive before EMS gets there, if it’s something we could administer and help save a life, that’s what we’re going to do,” Boone said.
Boone said the department has had a few limited calls where the Narcan could have helped someone faster.
“At this point, the state’s going to be providing this at no cost, I feel like we should be on the front end and try to prevent a death if we can,” Boone said.
Deputies were trained in using the drug last week. Boone said the department is on a waiting list to receive a supply of the drug.