The Department of Health is increasing the availability of Naloxone kits in the wake of another spike in sudden drug-related deaths.

The RNC last week reported five sudden deaths on the northeast Avalon and in Labrador over the previous week and warned about the possibility of an “increase in the availability of illicit, dangerous and potentially fatal drugs” in the community.

Free Naloxone kits are publicly available to help reverse the fatal effects of opioid or fentanyl overdose, and allow a patient time to get medical assistance.

The number of distribution sites for free kits has been increased from 100 to more than 130 across the province.

Efforts are now underway to provide kits at new sites, including municipal offices and food banks. Mail-out options are also available for people who want to receive a kit.