Public Warning: Local Poisonings from People Using Substance They Believed Was Cannabis

Fri, Jun 12, 2026

Following Anishinabek Police Service’s recent news release, Algoma Public Health has been notified by the Ontario Poison Centre of a third recent poisoning in the Sault Ste. Marie area, which happened after the person used what they believed was cannabis.

We are making the community aware and emphasizing the following harm reduction messages:

• Call 911 immediately if you think someone is experiencing a poisoning, especially if:
  • You can’t wake the person up
  • Breathing is very slow or has stopped
  • Deep snoring and gurgling sounds
  • Fingernails or lips are blue or purple
  • Body is very limp
• Never use alone – if this is not possible, have someone you trust check on you or call the National Overdose Response Service (1-888-688-6677)
• Always start with a low dose and increase slowly, especially if trying something new or restarting use. If you previously used substances regularly, but have not used for some time, do not take the same amount as before, because your body will not be used to it and will be at high risk of overdose.
• Carry a naloxone kit. Naloxone can help reverse an opioid-related poisoning but does not reverse poisonings from other substances.  Always call 911 if someone is experiencing poisoning.
• Never mix substances, including alcohol, as this increases your risk of overdose

Health care providers are reminded that the Ontario Poison Centre is available as a consultative resource 24 hours a day (1-800-268-9017).

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