A major priority in risk reduction is meeting people where they’re at. This may mean accepting that someone will continue to use substances while taking steps to make sure that they are as safe as possible as they do. For example: carrying naloxone (the life saving opioid overdose reversal drug also known as Narcan), using fentanyl test strips, practicing safer sex, and more (see bottom of page).
Risk reduction is a set of strategies focused on lowering the negative effects of drug use. It supports both individuals living with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and the communities around them. It emphasizes the importance of people with active SUD taking responsibility for reducing their own risk, while also recognizing that a better quality of life—for both the individual and the community—doesn’t always depend on stopping drug use completely. Risk reduction also acknowledges the very real dangers of substance misuse. More questions than answers? AskPETRA for help sorting it out.
SAVE ONE LIFE.
AskPETRA can provide you with FREE naloxone kits that can help you save a life should you happen to find yourself in the presence of someone who has overdosed on opiates. You can now access free naloxone from our 24/7 vending machine at 262 Cottage Street in Littleton (old hospital, building entrance) or you can order a naloxone kit anonymously below. (Each kit includes two doses of naloxone, latex gloves, a CPR mask, fentanyl test strips, and educational materials that provide information on safer substance use, HIV testing, what to do after you’ve used naloxone, and more.)
–Find Our Vending Machine–
OTHER WAYS TO GET NALOXONE
You can also fill out the form below to receive your free Save One Life kit. OR If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can pick up a save one life kit at the following location: Littleton Food Coop at 43 Bethlehem Rd, Littleton, NH 03561.
Due to temperature sensitivity, kits can’t be mailed, but can be delivered or picked up. Kits are only available in Coos and Northern Grafton counties.
One of the most important factors in Risk Reduction is knowing how to identify an overdose. An overdose is taking too much of any substance. Drug overdoses may be accidental or intentional and can lead to serious medical complications including death. The seriousness of a drug overdose depends on a lot of things including which substance has been taken, how much has been taken, and the physical and medical history of the person who has taken the substance. Watch this video BEFORE you need to use Naloxone.
Naloxone Administration- Opioid Overdose Reversal
12-Minute Overview
For access to sterile supplies, text “SAFE” to 603-259-4820
Request Kits
What is Narcan?
Narcan, also known as naloxone, comes in both a nasal spray and injectable form. Narcan is most widely used in the nasal spray form and is used to counteract an opioid overdose to save lives.
Where can I get naloxone/Narcan?
AskPETRA has kits containing Narcan, CPR masks, fentanyl test strips, and other harm reduction items available for free to anyone in Northern NH who wants them. For more information or to receive yours, call 603-279-1729 or email #ob#NfxCRGEN#at#APUPAU.bet#ob#.
You can also access free naloxone from our 24/7 vending machine at 262 Cottage Street in Littleton (old hospital, building entrance) or you can order a naloxone kit anonymously below.
In addition, naloxone/Narcan is available for free by calling 211 or at your local Doorway:
- The Doorway at Androscoggin Valley Hospital: 603-342-5000
- The Doorway at Little Regional Healthcare: 603-259-1659
You can also get it without a prescription at your local pharmacy, but there may be a cost if you do not have health insurance.
How do I use naloxone/Narcan?
What is a Syringe Services Program (SSP)?
A Syringe Services Program (SSP) is a program that provides an array of services to people who inject drugs (PWID). Syringe services can include safe disposal containers for needles and syringes; an exchange program for needles, syringes and other injection equipment; HIV and hepatitis testing and education; wound education; referrals to substance use disorder and mental health treatment; and more.
While there can be a stigma attached to SSPs, the truth is that individuals who use IV drugs are five times more likely to enter treatment and more likely to reduce or stop injecting when they have access to an SSP (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). In addition, by providing a safe place to get rid of used needles, SSPs significantly reduce the risk of accidental needlestick injuries to first responders and members of the community. This pdf explains more about the benefits of SSPs in your community.
Wound Care
Wounds and infections are common among people who inject drugs (PWID). Unfortunately, homelessness, limited access to sterile supplies, stigma, and little to no access to basic hygiene needs are all barriers to wound care and getting treatment. Common wounds and infections can include abscesses, blood poisoning, infection of the heart lining, tetanus, collapsed veins, and hepatitis. While most PWID are offered additional medical and mental health treatment when they seek treatment for their wounds, many do not seek it out due to fear and stigma.
Click here for more information on ways to prevent wounds and infections, and the proper treatment if necessary.
Screening and Testing for HIV/ Hepatitis C
Early diagnosis of HIV and Hepatitis C is important because it provides access to treatment, education and other resources which benefits the health of the individual and helps prevent the spread of the viruses. Often if someone is at risk for one infection, they are also at risk for the other. Effective treatment can eliminate or significantly contain the viruses, making early, accessible testing even more critical for the health of the individual and the community
Access recordings from the Town Hall Series: Risk Reduction and Rural Health: Taking Action for Our Communities
Our Northern NH communities are under threat of another epidemic: a surge of HIV and Hepatitis C. We can stop it if we work together. The recordings below are from the virtual Town Hall Series, a collaboration between North Country Health Consortium and NH Listens.
sAFER sEX: stdS
A good way to reduce your risk of STDs is to limit your sexual activity to one partner who is only having sex with you.
Before starting sexual relations with a new partner, ask about their sexual activity, IV drug use, and history of STDs.
Consider sexual activities other than vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse. There are other techniques that do not involve the exchange of body fluids or contact between mucous membranes.
Use condoms and lubricant (lube) every time you have anal, oral, or vaginal sex. For oral sex, help protect your mouth by having your partner use a condom (male or female) or a dental dam (female).
Contact a healthcare provider if you have any signs of a sore, blister, rash, or discharge.
See a healthcare provider for regular pelvic exams and periodic tests for STDs.
Practice safe injection techniques: Sharing needles or other injection equipment can increase the risk of contracting STDs like HIV and hepatitis. Always use clean equipment and avoid sharing needles.
Common Myths about stds
MYTH: Condoms provide complete protection against STDs. FACT: While condoms do reduce the risk of transmission, they’re not 100% effective, particularly for STDs that are spread through skin-to-skin contact.
MYTH: You can’t get an STD if yo u only have oral or anal sex. FACT: STDs can be transmitted through oral or anal sex, as well as vaginal intercourse.
MYTH: STDs will go away when treated. FACT: While some STDs can be treated with medication, others remain for life.
MYTH: STDs can be cured with over-the-counter remedies. FACT: Most STDs require medical treatment, and some cannot be cured, only managed, throughout life.
MYTH: If you don’t have symptoms, you don’t have an STD. FACT: Many people with STDs have no symptoms, so it’s important to get tested regularly if you’re sexually active.
sAFER sEX: pregnancy
Effective methods of preventing pregnancy include using birth control pills, condoms, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and sterilization. Ask a healthcare professional what is best for you.
Plan B – also known as the “morning after pill” – is an emergency contraceptive that can be taken within 3 days of intercourse. It is sold over the counter in our local pharmacies (no ID necessary).
Track your period so you’ll know as soon as possible if you become pregnant. This will increase your options for next steps.
If you do become pregnant, do not wait. Seek care as soon as possible to give yourself the most options available.
Common Myths about BIRTH CONTROL
MYTH: Douching after sex can prevent pregnancy. FACT: Douching after intercourse does not protect against STDs and could spread an infection farther into the reproductive tract. It may also wash away spermicidal protection.
MYTH: A woman can’t become pregnant when she is having her period. FACT: Although it is uncommon, pregnancy can happen when you are having your period.
MYTH: Abortion is illegal. FACT: In NH, abortion up until 24 weeks* of pregnancy is legal and available. The earlier in your pregnancy you seek abortion, the easier it will be, so seek care immediately if you think you might be pregnant.
MYTH: The pullout method (prior to ejaculation) can protect you from pregnancy. FACT: Pre-ejaculate may contain sperm that can result in to pregnancy.
*As of May 2023. Please check for current/changes in law.