Fort Lauderdale, FL – In a groundbreaking initiative to combat the opioid crisis, the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) has introduced free naloxone vending machines in its jail facilities. Unlike conventional vending machines, these units dispense life-saving nasal spray instead of snacks or beverages, and no payment is required.
The nasal spray, known as naloxone or by its brand name Narcan, is an emergency medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of opioid overdoses, including those from heroin, fentanyl, or prescription opioids. The initiative aims to reduce the number of opioid-related deaths in Broward County by making naloxone readily accessible to individuals leaving jail who may be struggling with addiction.
Installed in the public waiting areas of BSO’s jail facilities and the Department of Detention and Community Programs storefront in Lauderdale Lakes, the vending machines are stocked with dozens of doses. This initiative is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with additional support from the Florida Department of Health.
“The goal of this new initiative is to save lives, plain and simple,” stated Broward Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony. “By providing access to this medication, I hope individuals leaving our jails are equipped with a vital tool to possibly save their life or the life of a loved one.”
Recent data from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Medical Examiner’s Commission indicates a decrease in fentanyl-related deaths statewide from January to June 2022 compared to the same period in 2023. Broward County has also experienced a decline in opioid deaths, a trend that BSO hopes to continue with this new program.
David Scharf, Executive Director of BSO’s Department of Community Programs, emphasized the importance of the initiative. “The Broward Sheriff’s Office, along with its community partners, takes the opioid crisis seriously and has worked relentlessly to assess and address the problem with new programs and initiatives,” he said.
BSO has been proactive in addressing the opioid epidemic through various efforts, including the Recovery Residence Walkaway Intervention Program and equipping deputies and Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue personnel with Narcan. Additionally, BSO coordinates a federal grant to supply Naloxone to law enforcement agencies throughout the county.
For those who suspect someone is overdosing, it is crucial to immediately call 911, administer naloxone if available, keep the person awake and breathing, place them on their side to prevent choking, and stay with them until help arrives.
While the naloxone vending machines are accessible to the public, individuals seeking the medication can also visit the Florida Department of Health locations in Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach.
This initiative marks a significant step in BSO’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the community from the devastating impact of opioid overdoses.
