UTICA — In response to the recent warning from the State Department of Health about an alarming rise in opioid overdoses and the spike alert for Oneida County, the Center for Family Life and Recovery reminds the public of the services they offer.

According to the State Department of Health, these overdoses are likely linked to fentanyl, which is a powerful opioid that is often added to other drugs like heroin, as well as, cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, and illicitly manufactured pills, including benzodiazepines and other psychostimulants like Molly and MDMA.

Nearly half of all overdose deaths in New York State now involve fentanyl.

The State Department of Health is encouraging providers and the public to take advantage of a new standing order allowing New Yorkers to get naloxone without a prescription.

Individuals interested can also be trained by CFLR in a brief training session on how to look for the signs of an overdose, how to administer Narcan, and get a kit once trained.

The following training sessions are free and open to the public and CFLR’s EAP companies:

In-person

• Thursday, Sept. 15, at 11 a.m. at the CFLR Utica office, 502 Court St., Utica.

• Wednesday, Sept. 21, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. walk-in or 3 p.m. sit-down class at the CLFR Rome office, 201 W. Dominick St., Rome.

Virtual Drop in

• Wednesday, Sept. 21 at 11 a.m. The zoom link can be found at https://www.whenthereshelpthereshope.com/calendar/ or by calling 315-733-1709.

Additionally, CLFR has several other services to help prevent overdoses, help families affected by addiction, and assist those in active addiction to seek help and recovery services. The Center for Family Life and Recovery’s vision is to be a leader in creating a world where people have the power to achieve and celebrate recovery.

Along with supporting individuals and families struggling with addiction and recovery, mental health issues, and behavioral issues, CFLR’s goal is to inspire hope, provide help, promote wellness, and transform lives. To learn more, visit www.whenthereshelpthereshope.com