DBH clinics offer free Narcan for International Overdose Awareness Day

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International Overdose Awareness Day graphic with a purple ribbon and San Bernardino County Behavioral Health branding. — *San Bernardino County Behavioral Health recognizes International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, raising awareness, honoring lives lost and promoting overdose prevention.*

In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, the San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) is making overdose prevention resources more accessible across the county and reminding residents that everyone can play a role in saving a life.

On Monday, Aug. 31, all DBH outpatient clinics will host pop-up overdose prevention booths during regular business hours. Community members are invited to stop by any participating clinic to receive a free box of Narcan (naloxone), learn how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose and connect with additional prevention, education and behavioral health resources. No appointment is necessary.

“Overdose prevention starts with making sure people have the information and tools they need before an emergency happens,” said Amber Carpenter, deputy director of Substance Use Disorder and Recovery Services. “By making Narcan available throughout our clinics, we are putting a lifesaving resource directly into the hands of our community and empowering more people to be prepared to help when it matters most.”

A lifesaving tool anyone can carry

Narcan is a brand of naloxone, a medication that can quickly reverse an opioid overdose, including overdoses involving fentanyl, heroin and prescription opioids. Naloxone works by temporarily blocking the effects of opioids and can restore breathing within minutes when administered in time.

It is safe, easy to use and can be administered by anyone. No medical training is required.

Having Narcan nearby can make a critical difference while emergency medical help is on the way. DBH encourages residents to think of Narcan as an emergency preparedness tool: something worth having even if you never expect to use it.

Signs of a possible opioid overdose may include:

Inability to wake or respond
Slow, shallow or stopped breathing
Choking, gurgling or unusual snoring sounds
Small, “pinpoint” pupils
Discolored lips, fingertips or skin

Overdose is preventable

Drug overdose remains a significant public health concern nationally and locally, with opioids, particularly fentanyl, continuing to contribute substantially to overdose deaths. Fentanyl can also be present in counterfeit pills or mixed with other substances without a person’s knowledge, increasing the risk of an unexpected overdose.

But overdose deaths are preventable. Knowing the signs of an overdose, talking openly about the risks of fentanyl and opioids, carrying Narcan and knowing how to use it can all help protect friends, family members, coworkers and neighbors.

You do not have to know someone who uses opioids to carry Narcan. You only have to be willing to help.

International Overdose Awareness Day is an opportunity to remember those whose lives have been lost to overdose, support individuals and families impacted by substance use, reduce stigma and take meaningful action to prevent future deaths.

DBH’s countywide clinic initiative is part of its ongoing commitment to expanding access to prevention resources, treatment and lifesaving tools throughout San Bernardino County.

Unable to visit a clinic in person? Free Narcan is available year-round through the DBH website and can be ordered online for delivery.

Visit the DBH Fentanyl Awareness and Naloxone webpage to order free Narcan, learn how to administer it, request a Narcan training and access additional overdose prevention resources.

One small action can make a lifesaving difference.

Additional County Update News – August 27, 2026