Harm Reduction
DISCLAIMER: This page is for informational and educational purposes only. We do not provide medical or legal advice; readers should consult healthcare professionals before using any of the methods listed. The links provided are for external resources and do not necessarily endorse specific treatment methods. Please read with caution and reverence.
At Land Safely, we believe that harm prevention starts with awareness and compassion.
Opioid Epidemic:
Each year, over one hundred thousand drug-related deaths occur in the United States
- According to the CDC, 79,358 of these deaths are from opioid overdose (2023).
- This problem has impacted an immeasurable number of individuals' lives, and rips mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters from their loved ones. To prevent the problem from growing worse, it is important to educate yourself and your loved ones on the dangers and ramifications of opioid addiction.
- This problem could affect anyone's life, and the solution starts with kindness. Take the time to reach out to someone who you may think is being impacted negatively by drug use.
- Let them know that they are loved, and try to view the issue from their perspective. Understand the grip addiction can take on someone's life, and love them in the right direction.
- Always be mindful of others and do not treat people suffering from addiction as less than. Below are helpful resources that we have gathered in an attempt to do our part in stopping the opioid epidemic.
Helpful Resources:
Opioid Awareness and Data:
Overview of how the crisis developed, updated statistics, and government data.
Real-time data dashboard on U.S. overdose deaths.
Opioid Prevention and Harm Reduction:
Central CDC portal on prevention, treatment, and recovery resources.
Federal info on where to get naloxone (Narcan) and how to use it.
Good Samaritan Laws:
- Most US states provide what is called Good Samaritan Laws.
- These laws are in place to provide legal protection to individuals who contact 911 in drug overdose emergencies.
- They are in place to help encourage people to seek help without fear of prosecution or arrest.
- Protections usually include protection for possession of drugs for the person reporting the overdose and protection against probation or parole violations.
- It is very important to note that state laws vary greatly. Please check your state's laws well before you are in a situation where you are forced to use them.
- Another important note is that you must call 911 to receive protection, and protection does not apply to significant quantities of drugs, nor will it protect against drug trafficking or outstanding warrants.
- If someone is overdosing, calling 911 can save a life. While laws differ across states, Good Samaritan protections are in place to allow people to reach out for aid in emergencies.
Find Your Specific State Laws:
NCSL Good Samaritan Overdose Laws
State-by-state breakdown of protections
Legislative Analysis and Public Policy Association (LAPPA)
Detailed state law summaries
Crisis Hotlines:
SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
If you are struggling with addiction, reach out. Help is free and confidential.
24/7 phone line for people using drugs alone — a trained volunteer stays on the line for safety.
Prevention and Safety:
- The best way to stay safe is not to use drugs, but if you do choose to, know the risks and prepare accordingly.
- The majority of overdoses occur from unknowingly taking fentanyl or stronger substances.
- Testing drugs reduces the risk of overdose significantly.
CDC Fentanyl Test Strip Information