Overdose Prevention
Dauphin County Drug and Alcohol Services (717) 635-2254

Preparedness Is How We Protect Each Other

Protection today means being prepared for risks we can't always see. In a world where any drug can contain hidden dangers, keeping our families and communities safe requires knowledge, compassion, and practical tools. This page is about resilience—creating safer, stronger communities for everyone by normalizing preparation, sharing clear guidance, and making lifesaving resources like Naloxone, lockboxes, and overdose response education accessible to all. Because being prepared doesn't mean you expect the worst—it means you care.

MISSION

The mission of the Hope Collaborative is to develop and implement comprehensive, compassionate strategies that inform and educate, while reducing stigma and ensuring access to care for those with a sustance use disorder. Our shared commitment to this critical work will save lives and create a safer, healthier future for Dauphin County residents.

VISION

Our vision is to prevent and eliminate overdose deaths in Dauphin County.

Compassion That Protects Lives

Harm reduction focuses on keeping people safe and alive—without judgment. By providing education, resources, and clear guidance on how to respond to an overdose, we help individuals, families, and communities reduce harm, prevent deaths, and connect people to support when they're ready. Knowing what to do in an emergency can save a life and strengthen the health and safety of our community.

What Does an Overdose Look Like?

  • Their skin may look very pale or feel cold and clammy. Lips or fingernails may appear blue, purple, or gray
  • Their body may become limp or unresponsive
  • They may vomit or make choking or gurgling sounds
  • They may not wake up, respond, or be able to speak
  • Their breathing may slow, become irregular, or stop, and their heartbeat may be very slow or absent

What to Do in the Event of an Overdose

If someone is showing signs of an overdose, such as slow or stopped breathing, blue or gray lips or fingernails, choking or gurgling sounds, or not responding to voice or touch, act right away. An overdose is a medical emergency, and quick action can save a life.

If you're unsure, it's always safer to respond.

CHECK
AND CALL

Try to wake the person. If they don't respond, call emergency services.

GIVE
NALOXONE

If you have naloxone, give it right away. Repeat if needed.
Multiple doses may be required.

SUPPORT
BREATHING

If breathing is slow or stopped, give rescue breaths until help arrives.

STAY AND
MONITOR

Place them on their side in the recovery position and stay with the person until emergency help arrives.

REQUEST FREE NALOXONE & LOCKBOXES

Dauphin County is a Recognized Entity through the Pennsylvania Overdose Prevention Program, POPP, to distribute Naloxone and Testing Strips to residents and organizations that serve Dauphin County.

Please Select Which Supplies You Are Requesting

Naloxone Trainings for
Businesses & Organizations

Overdoses can happen anywhere—including workplaces, public spaces, and community settings. The online training below can equip businesses and organizations with the knowledge and confidence to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and respond quickly and effectively. Participants learn how to use naloxone, support breathing, and take action in an emergency—helping create safer, more prepared workplaces and communities.

online training

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