“Through education, awareness enforcement and treatment, my administration and the Heroin Prevention Task Force are diligently combatting heroin and opioid abuse throughout Nassau,” said County Executive Mangano. “These free Overdose Prevention Seminars continue to help save lives and keep families whole.”

At least 190 Nassau residents died from Heroin and prescription painkillers in 2014 (final statistics for 2015 is not yet available). Narcan has been used by paramedics and emergency room doctors for decades, to save lives. Yet a 2006 State law allows citizens to administer Narcan in an attempt to save a life, without fear of liability. Nassau County has already provided Narcan training for nearly 6,000 people since 2012. At least two dozen trainees have used that knowledge - and the Narcan kit they were given - to revive someone overdosing on Heroin or painkillers, and save their lives. Narcan is administered through a nasal spray, and is provided at no charge to trainees over the age of 18.

Legislator Howard J. Kopel stated, “I urge any person who suspects that a loved one may have a drug problem to attend this meeting. It could help you save a life!”

Social Worker and Certified Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor attendees will be eligible to receive free Continuing Education Units (CEU) for the two hour workshop – which is provided by the Nassau County Department of Human Services.

Anyone can attend, but seating is limited. Residents MUST pre-register either by email or by calling (516) 571-6105. For dates and locations of other Overdose Prevention Seminars, visit online.