OPP reports a rise in overdoses in Kenora and urges residents to recognize signs of drug activity and report safely

Kenora, ON – February 3, 2025 – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Kenora and across Northwestern Ontario are raising alarms over an increase in suspected overdoses, including a recent fatality in the community. Residents are being urged to avoid illicit substances from unregulated sources and to take proactive steps to combat the region’s opioid crisis.

Recognizing Overdose Signs and Responding Safely

If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, call 9-1-1 immediately. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act (GSDOA) protects individuals who seek help from simple drug possession charges. This includes the person overdosing, those who call for help, and anyone at the scene when emergency services arrive.

Overdose warning signs include:

• Difficulty walking, talking, or staying awake
• Blue lips or nails
• Cold, clammy skin and small pupils
• Confusion, dizziness, or extreme drowsiness
• Choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds
• Slow, weak, or absent breathing

Do not handle unknown substances, as some can cause harm even through skin contact. Contact police for safe disposal.

Identifying Drug “Trap Houses” in Your Community

Drug “trap houses” are locations where illegal drug activity occurs, often disguised as normal residences. Recognizing and safely reporting these operations can help disrupt the supply of dangerous substances in your community.

Signs of a suspected trap house include:

• Frequent short visits by numerous individuals at all hours
• Increased vehicle traffic, especially vehicles that stay only briefly
• Unusual smells, such as strong chemical or skunky odors
• Suspicious behavior, including loitering or individuals avoiding eye contact
• Covered windows, barricaded doors, or unusual security measures

If you suspect a trap house, do not intervene directly. Instead, document any suspicious activity and report it to police. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers to help address illegal drug activity while maintaining your safety.

Proper Disposal of Medications

Expired or unused prescription medications should never be kept at home, where they could fall into the wrong hands. Safely dispose of them by returning them to:

• Pharmacies or prescription drug dispensers
• Hospitals or medical clinics
• Local drug take-back events

OPP’s Commitment to Ending the Opioid Crisis

The OPP continues to collaborate with community partners to address the opioid crisis locally and across the province. Their goal is to build safer, healthier communities by reducing the prevalence of dangerous drugs and supporting addiction recovery services.