Hamilton County issues overdose drug to deputies and first responders

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is issuing Narcan to its officers.

The drug reverses effects of an opiate or opioid overdose from drugs like heroin or OxyContin.

The main threat to law enforcement has been Fentanyl.

It is commonly used to cut heroin.

Fentanyl can be absorbed through the skin and accidentally inhaled by an unsuspecting officer.

It is a growing problem across the country for law enforcement.

But deputies can also use Narcan to help others.

Just last week, a traffic officer gave Narcan to a suspected overdose victim, stabilizing her until EMS could arrive.