THE council has put out information to try and stop people dying from drug overdoes.

It comes after more than 200 people attended A and E with overdoses in the last year.

Tomorrow is Overdose Awareness Day, a chance to remember those who have died of overdoses.

To raise awareness, the British Airways i360, Brighton Palace Pier, and the Brighton Centre will be switching their lights to purple tomorrow evening.

Brighton and Hove City Council said that anyone can overdose.

Even if you do not use illegal substances, alcohol and some medications still pose a risk.

To reduce the risk of an overdose, follow these tips:

  • You can overdose on any type of drug, especially if mixed with other substances.
  • Do not mix – prescriptions, over the counter medicines, and alcohol will all have an impact on other substances you take.
  • Do not feel pressured to use drugs or drink alcohol because others around you are.
  • If you do choose to take drugs, research drugs first and make sure you know emergency first aid.
  • Never use alone. Make sure you are in a safe place with people around that can help in an emergency.
  • Remember that tolerance reduces after a period of abstinence and purity varies – treat every new batch as an unknown substance.

If you suspect someone has overdosed you should call 999.

There are a number of common signs to look out for:

  • Choking or snore-like gurgling sounds.
  • Unresponsive to noise or touch.
  • Lethargy and slurred speech.
  • Blue lips or fingernails.
  • Low and shallow breathing.
  • Pale and clammy face.

Tomorrow, Cascade Creative Recovery Choir - made up of people recovering from addiction - will be singing in the Royal Pavillion Gardens at 8.20pm.

During the performance, information will be provided to passers-by about how to spot the signs and what to do if an overdose is happening.

The Argus: Cllr Sue ShanksCllr Sue Shanks

Councillor Sue Shanks, chairwoman of the health and wellbeing board, said: "Thank you to Cascade Creative Recovery and all the local venues supporting this important campaign.

"The idea is to raise awareness, so it's great there is such a visible display of support.

"We hope the choir and illuminations will interrupt curious residents and visitors and give them pause to stop, listen and learn something that could help save lives.

"Anything we can do to prevent even just one death is worthwhile."

Between July 2020 and June 2021 around 227 people have attended A and E in Brighton and Hove because of a drug overdose.

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