Law Enforcement & First Responders

To report an increase in overdoses, a potential overdose cluster, or any other unusual drug-related event, call the Georgia Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Law Enforcement

PDMP
Law enforcement may access PDMP information through a search warrant or subpoena.

EMS

EMS Documentation Guidelines
The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) uses a variety of data sources to track drug overdose trends across Georgia, including EMS data. EMS services should document drug overdose-related EMS trips following these guidelines to help DPH better track and respond to the overdose epidemic.

All First Responders

Responder Safety
Unknown opioids may consist of multiple substances in varying amounts and strengths. Examples may include heroin, morphine, fentanyl, carfentanil and others. Carfentanil and other fentanyl-related compounds are a serious danger to public safety, first responder, medical, treatment and laboratory personnel. These substances come in several forms, including powder, and they can be absorbed through the skin or through accidental inhalation of airborne powder.

Precautions for all First Responders

Avoid handling any substances or paraphernalia, if possible
Assume all unknown powdered drugs may contain fentanyl or its analogs
Minimize exposure opportunities by covering bare skin
Notify everyone in proximity of the possible presence of a dangerous drug
Do not taste, touch, or sniff suspected drugs of any kind
If you are alone, notify someone to ensure your safety is monitored
Ensure naloxone is immediately available for use
Perform risk assessments at every scene to determine exposure risk, and utilize appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

More information about fentanyl risk is available through the CDC.

Medical Amnesty
Georgia has a Medical Amnesty Law, which provides limited immunity to those seeking medical attention for themselves or someone else. This immunity covers:

Possession of certain drugs or drug paraphernalia
Violation of probation, parole, and other violations
Illegal possession and consumption of alcohol

This law also provides civil and criminal immunity for possessing and administering Naloxone.

Naloxone Standing Order
Whenever possible, officers should carry Naloxone when responding to an event that may involve an overdose.When administering Naloxone, please note that multiple doses may be necessary. Georgia has a Standing Order for a prescription of Naloxone for overdose prevention, which makes Naloxone available at any pharmacy without a prescription.