Nanaimo

Overview of the Toxic Drug Crisis in Nanaimo

• Since the declaration of a public health emergency in 2016, Nanaimo has lost 530 lives to unregulated drug toxicity.

• This crisis is fueled by an increasingly toxic and unpredictable street drug supply, worsened by the lack of a safe, legally regulated alternative.

• Across the Island Health region, 73% of those lost were men, and half of all deaths province-wide occurred among individuals of working age (30-49).

• Youth are also affected: 20 children and teens under 19 have died from toxic drug poisoning in 2024. 

Substances Detected in Drug-Related Deaths (2023-24)

• Fentanyl – detected in 82% of cases

• Cocaine – detected in 49%

• Methamphetamine – detected in 44%

• Bromazolam – detected in 36%

• Hydromorphone – detected in 3%

Where Drug-Related Deaths Occur

• The majority of deaths happen indoors (81%):

  • 48% in private residences

  • 32% in other indoor locations like shelters or supportive housing

• Only 19% of deaths happen outdoors (vehicles, streets, and parks).

What You Can Do

• Learn & Talk About It – Educate yourself on substance use and harm reduction. Open, non-judgmental conversations help reduce stigma.

• Use Respectful Language – Avoid harmful labels and treat people who use substances with dignity and compassion.

• Be Prepared to Help – Carry a naloxone kit and learn how to use it—it could save a life.

• Support Harm Reduction Services – Advocate for the expansion of safe consumption sites and access to safer drug alternatives.

• Advocate for Policy Change – Push for policies prioritizing health-based approaches over criminalization.