RAPID CITY, S.D. — South Dakota health officials have issued a public alert following a recent spike in suspected drug overdoses in Pennington County, many of which may be linked to fentanyl. The powerful synthetic opioid is often mixed with methamphetamine and other substances—sometimes without the user’s knowledge—greatly increasing the risk of overdose.
In response, local and state officials are urging community members to take steps to protect themselves and others through awareness, prevention, and preparedness.
How to Respond and Stay Safe
Public health and harm reduction leaders emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs of an overdose and being prepared to act quickly. Key safety recommendations include:
- Keep naloxone on hand. This life-saving medication can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone is available for free through select pharmacies listed at LetsBeClearSD.com and from community naloxone distribution boxes provided by Emily’s Hope. To find a naloxone box near you, visit EmilysHope.charity/find-narcan.
- Only take medications prescribed to you by a licensed healthcare provider.
- Test substances with fentanyl test strips if you use drugs. These strips can detect the presence of fentanyl and help prevent unintentional poisoning.
- Never use drugs alone. For those who do, the Never Use Alone hotline—1-800-484-3731—provides a remote safety net.
- Learn the signs of overdose: trouble breathing, unresponsiveness, and pinpoint pupils. If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately, administer naloxone if available, and perform CPR if you’re able.
Support and Resources Are Available
Anyone struggling with substance use or mental health concerns can reach out 24/7 to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—a free, confidential support service via call, text, or online chat.
Rapid Response Teams Offering Post-Overdose Support
Project Recovery operates a post-overdose Rapid Response Team serving Pennington, Meade, Custer, Lawrence, Butte, Oglala Lakota, and Roberts counties. Those who have recently survived an overdose—or their loved ones—can call 605-593-6570 to get connected to recovery resources.
In eastern South Dakota, the Emily’s Hope Post Overdose Response Team provides similar services in Minnehaha, Lincoln, and Codington counties, with plans to expand to more communities. Call/Text: 605-215-0654 for help following an unintentional overdose.
