International Overdose Awareness Day

Overdoses can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Learn how to keep your family safe, spot an overdose, and take action in an emergency. What you know could save a life.

What is International Overdose Awareness Day?

Overdose continues to be a critical public health crisis across America, where opioids like fentanyl have driven alarming increases in overdose deaths.

Every year on August 31, this event helps drive public awareness and promotes policies that can save lives — such as naloxone distribution, harm reduction services, and supervised safe-use sites.

Why is it important?

Remember those who have lost their lives to overdose and support their grieving families and communities.

Raise awareness about the national impact of overdose and highlight that many deaths are preventable.

Reduce stigma tied to drug-related deaths, encouraging compassionate and open conversations.

Promote action by advocating for harm reduction policies, access to overdose reversal medications, education, and support resources.

Make a plan

Protect yourself and those you love by creating an opioid safety plan.
	Spot the signs of an overdose Signs of an overdose include loss of consciousness, being unable to talk, slow or shallow breathing, choking sounds, vomiting, and irregular heartbeat. Learn to spot the signs >>
	Always carry naloxone Naloxone, also called “Narcan,” will reverse an opioid overdose. Carry multiple doses with you and be prepared to use them in an emergency. See how to use it >>
	Find fentanyl testing strips Fentanyl testing strips can detect if fentanyl is mixed into heroin, meth, cocaine, and fake pills that look real. Learn how to use them and where to get them >>
	Educate yourself and others Learn about fentanyl and what to do in a crisis, and tell friends and loved ones about your opioid safety plan. Having open, honest conversations about opioids dispels myths and keeps us safe.
	Tranq can be resistant to naloxone Tranq, also called Xylazine, is a veterinary anesthetic that is mixed with fentanyl. Tranq does not always respond to naloxone, which is why it's important to call 911 when someone overdoses. Learn more about tranq >>
	You have the power to save a life Remember – addiction is a complex medical condition, not a moral failing. By creating a plan and openly talking about addiction with your loved ones, you’re making the world a safer place.

Watch Jenny's Story

Jenny was trained to use naloxone. Nine days later she saved a stranger's life.

Keep an Overdose Safety card in your wallet

Our free, printable cards are easy to use. Just print, fold in half, and stick in your wallet so you're always prepared in an emergency. You'll get four cards you can share with friends and family to keep them safe.

Get your cards

See how overdose affects real people

Justin's Story

Justin Cappiello was 25 years old when he was taken from us by an overdose of heroin, which was laced with fentanyl. He was the oldest of 3 children, loved his brother and sister and watched over them always! Justin was so full of life, love and laughter.