The Kalispell Police Department is training officers to use a substance called Narcan -- also known as Naloxone .
Kalispell Police Administrative Captain Tim Falkner explained that Narcan reverses the effects of an opioid overdose.
Officers identify the symptoms of an overdose and will administer Narcan through a nasal spray, which gets the medication quickly into the patient's body.
Training is being provided by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. Capt. Falkner says that Narcan is essential for first responders.
“There’s a growing need nationwide with overdoses on the rise. Thankfully, in our state, I believe our overdose levels are stable at this time, but we’re talking about saving lives. So, even if we’re saving one life, there’s a need for it," said Captain Falkner.
Falkner says that within the next couple of months all Kalispell officers will be trained on the use of Narcan.
