Harm reduction

Toronto's harm-reduction map changed sharply in 2025 and 2026. Provincially funded consumption and treatment sites were closed or transitioned, while Toronto Public Health continued supply distribution, mobile outreach, naloxone training, and referrals through community agencies. The practical takeaway: call first, carry naloxone, and do not assume a site that was open last year offers the same services now.

You do not need ID, a health card, or a long explanation to ask for safer-use supplies. Many agencies can provide sterile supplies, safer smoking supplies, sharps containers, condoms, naloxone, wound-care referrals, and help finding a nearby service.

Naloxone can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose and can save a life if used right away. It is free at participating pharmacies and many community agencies. No prescription is required, and Ontario says you do not need a health card to get a kit.

1. 1

   Check responsiveness

   Call their name and try to wake them.
2. 2

   Call 911

   Say someone is unresponsive and may be overdosing. Emergency care comes first.
3. 3

   Give naloxone

   Use the nasal spray or injectable kit you have. Follow the kit instructions.
4. 4

   Support breathing if trained

   Start rescue breathing or chest compressions if you know how.
5. 5

   Give another dose if needed

   If there is no improvement in 2 to 3 minutes, give another dose.
6. 6

   Stay with them

   Naloxone can wear off before the opioids do, so overdose can return.

Toronto's Drug Checking Service tests small samples and shares public alerts about what is showing up in the unregulated supply. This is more detailed than a fentanyl test strip, and it can identify unexpected opioids, benzodiazepine-related drugs, tranquilizers, and other compounds.

• Check drugchecking.community for current locations before going. Some collection points may change as services are cut or reorganized.
• Recent Toronto alerts have included medetomidine, nitazene opioids, and benzodiazepine contamination in expected opioid samples.
• Naloxone still matters when opioids may be involved, but tranquilizers and benzodiazepines may not fully respond to naloxone.

An in-person supervised site is safest when someone can reach one. When they cannot, phone-based overdose prevention is a practical backup.

• Ask the person what kind of check-in they would actually answer: call, text, in-person knock, or NORS.
• Encourage them to tell someone where they are and keep a door reachable if emergency help may be needed.
• Avoid mixing opioids with alcohol or benzodiazepines when possible. Mixed sedatives are a major overdose risk.
• Start with the assumption that shame keeps people isolated. Offer options without making them defend themselves.

These services are under strain. Call ahead when you can, ask what is available today, and have a backup number ready.

• Use stigma-free, person-first language. Asking for supplies is a health decision, not a confession.
• Never promise that a site is open or stocked. Call with the person, or for them with consent.
• Keep two naloxone kits in outreach bags when possible and replace expired kits.
• Ask what would make the plan workable today: transit fare, phone battery, privacy, a warm handoff, or a closer agency.
• Write down the backup option before the person leaves. A closed door should not end the safety plan.

All sources accessed July 2, 2026. Service details change often — call first to confirm hours, intake, and availability before travelling.

• Harm Reduction Supplies and Locations — Toronto Public Health
• Substance Use Clinical Services — Toronto Public Health
• Naloxone — Anti-Overdose Medication — Toronto Public Health
• Where to get a free naloxone kit — Ontario
• Toronto's Drug Checking Service — MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions
• National Overdose Response Service — NORS
• Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act — Government of Canada
• Mental health and addiction services — Ontario / ConnexOntario
• Telephone Crisis Support — Gerstein Crisis Centre