The opioid crisis is impacting many families and communities in Grey and Bruce counties.
The health unit says emergency room visits for opioid overdoses have more than tripled in the last 14 years.
The needle exchange program has grown 57% between 2015 and 2016. And most participants reported opioids were their drug of choice.
Municipalities are being asked to install drop bins for safe needle disposal, and train staff about safe handling of used needles.
Grey Bruce Health is developing a local call to action to tackle the problem and encouraging local leaders to increase awareness, and advocate for enhanced funding and programs.
Municipal leaders are asked to support community harm reduction programs like support groups and Naloxone rescue kits.
And they are urged advocate for an urgent response to the opioid addiction and overdose in rural areas.
Other suggestions include surveillance to track the drugs, safe affordable housing, funding for addictions programs, and public transportation to ensure people can access support programs.
