The North Bay Police Service is issuing a high priority Community Safety Alert following a recent investigation that indicates both Carfentanil and Fluorofentanyl may be present in the local illicit drug supply.
These highly potent synthetic opioids are extremely dangerous and pose a significant risk to users, first responders, health care providers, and the broader community.
- Carfentanil is estimated to be 100 times stronger than fentanyl and 10,000 times stronger than morphine. It is used legally only as a tranquilizer for large animals such as elephants and is not approved for human use.
- Fluorofentanyl is a variant of fentanyl, chemically altered with a fluorine atom, and can be up to twice as potent as fentanyl. Like other variants, it is often found in counterfeit pills or mixed with other substances, making it especially dangerous.
Carfentanil and Fluorofentanyl are Schedule I substances under Canada’s Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and even a trace amount can cause death. They may be present in opioids and non-opioid street drugs, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or counterfeit tablets, without the user’s knowledge. Both can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, and may appear in powder, tablet, blotter, or spray form.
“Carfentanil and Fluorofentanyl are not typical street drugs,” said Acting Deputy Chief Jeff Warner. “In humans, exposure can be deadly within minutes, even without ingestion. Anyone using drugs or working around them absolutely need to take every possible precaution. We urge all community members to stay informed, remain cautious, and look out for one another.”
SIGNS OF OPIOID POISONING OR OVERDOSE MAY INCLUDE:
- Difficulty walking, talking, or staying awake
- Blue or grey lips and nails
- Very small (pinpoint) pupils
- Cold and clammy skin
- Dizziness or confusion
- Slow, weak, or no breathing
- Inability to wake up
- Choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds
If you suspect an overdose:
- Call 911 immediately
- Administer naloxone if available
- Stay with the person until help arrives
SAFETY REMINDERS FOR PEOPLE WHO USE DRUGS:
- Never use alone – If you overdose alone, no one can assist you.
- Mixing drugs, including alcohol and prescription medications, increases the risk of overdose.
- Street drugs can be unpredictably strong. Fentanyl, Fluorofentanyl, or Carfentanil may be mixed into any drug, including stimulants and counterfeit pills.
- Carry naloxone – Naloxone temporarily reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. Free kits and training are available at the Health Unit https://myhealthunit.ca/naloxone
- Risk increases if you haven’t used recently or are a new user.
IF YOU ARE A FAMILY MEMBER OR FRIEND OF A PERSON WHO USE DRUGS:
- Learn the signs of an overdose
- Carry naloxone and know how to use it
- Call 911 right away if you suspect an overdose
PROTECTIVE INFORMATION FOR FIRST RESPONDERS AND COMMUNITY WORKERS:
- Avoid direct contact with unknown substances.
- Always use personal protective equipment, such as gloves and respiratory protection.
- Watch for symptoms of exposure: respiratory depression, confusion, drowsiness.
- Multiple doses of naloxone may be required in a Fluorofentanyl or Carfentanil overdose.
- In case of suspected contact: move to fresh air, wash skin or eyes with cool water, and seek emergency medical care.
GOOD SAMARITAN DRUG OVERDOSE ACT:
If you call 911 during an overdose, you are protected under the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act.
This law provides immunity from simple drug possession charges when emergency services are called to the scene of an overdose. Your call could save a life.
CRIME STOPPERS HAS A $2,000 REWARD:
In 2025, Near North Crime Stoppers is offering a maximum reward of $2,000 for any tip that leads to an arrest involving fentanyl or the use of a firearm in a drug-related incident. Contact Crime Stoppers to submit a tip anonymously:
- 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
- nearnorthcrimestoppers.com
