Overdoses are ravaging the United States. Over the last two decades, more than 750,000 people have died as a result of a drug overdose, and in this same time, overdose deaths involving opioids have increased by almost six times—evidence of both the lethality and availability of these substances. For every fatal drug overdose, there are many more nonfatal incidents, representing a devastating and unfathomable number. While the world is struggling to contain a global pandemic, the fight against opioid addiction and fatalities continues with even more challenges. In fact, people currently struggling with a substance use disorder (SUD) are finding themselves practicing social distancing and experiencing isolation, increasing the conditions that lead to overdoses and death.

Police officers are on the front line of responding to frequent drug overdoses and calls for service involving individuals with substance use and co-occurring disorders. Arguably, one of the most notable actions over the last decade was equipping the police with naloxone to reverse opioid-related overdoses. As a result, the police, who are often the first to arrive on the scene of an overdose, are able to save lives, thus improving the health of the community.