WHAT IS HAPPENING?
The Opioid and Substance Use Notification System (OSUNS) identified an increase in suspected drug-related deaths between June 21st and June 27th of 2026. In total, there were six (6) suspected drug-related deaths reported across this period. The type of drug(s) involved in these cases are unknown at this time.
Over this same time span, the system also flagged a total of eighteen (18) opioid overdose emergency department visits, seventeen (17) of which involved fentanyl. Additionally, on June 30th, there was a spike in substance use-related emergency medical service (EMS) calls, with a total of 22 calls reported.
Hot weather can increase the risk of substance-related harms. During extreme heat events, people using substances may be more likely to experience dehydration, overheating, heat-related illness, and overdose. Community members using substances are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit time outdoors, and seek shade or air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. Additional safer use tips can also be found below.
Acknowledgements:
The trends highlighted in this alert reflect more than numbers – they represent people, families, and communities that are deeply affected. We acknowledge the loss and hardship behind these data and encourage community members to reach out for support as needed. For information on local services and supports, please visit https://wecoss.ca/wec_connect.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Please share the Alert amongst your networks. If you are aware of any linkages between these cases or other causes for these increases, please contact the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS USING SUBSTANCES, HERE ARE A FEW IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS:
- Never use alone.
- Check your substances first using drug test strips, if available.
- Try a very small amount first – “Start low and go slow.”
- If you use with a friend, do not use at the exact same time.
- Avoid mixing substances.
- Call 9-1-1 immediately if something doesn’t feel right.
- Have naloxone ready. Know how to respond to and prevent an opioid overdose.
- Call the National Overdose Response Service 24/7 hotline at 1-888-688-6677 for confidential support when using substances.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF AN OPIOID OVERDOSE:
- Not responding and can’t be woken.
- Breathing is slow or absent.
- Snoring or gurgling sounds.
- Blue fingernails or lips.
- Cold and clammy skin.
- Pupils are tiny.
STEPS TO RESPOND TO AN OVERDOSE:
- SHOUT & SHAKE their shoulders.
- CALL 911 if unresponsive.
- GIVE NALOXONE if an opioid overdose is suspected.
- PERFORM RESCUE BREATHING AND/OR CHEST COMPRESSIONS.
- IS IT WORKING? If no improvements after 2-3 minutes, repeat steps 3 & 4.
REMEMBER: Stay with the person. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection for people who experience or witness an overdose and call for help.
SOURCE
Office of the Chief Coroner
Windsor Regional Hospital
Essex-Windsor EMS