Those who use substances are warned of a drug alert in Vernon.

Red powder, pebbles and chunks sold as down, dope and fentanyl has tested positive for carfentanil (1.5 per cent), fentanyl (three per cent), fluorofentanyl and desalkylgidazepam (benzodiazepine) locally, according to Interior Health.

If used there is an extreme risk of overdose and fatal overdose as it may not respond to naloxone. Be cautions of amnesia, sleepiness and nodding out for a long time.

Smoking is safer than injecting, authorities advise.

Carfentanil is 50 to 100 times more potent than fentanyl. This drug contains the equivalent of up to a 150 per cent concentration of fentanyl.

If you are going to use drugs:

• Find drug checking locations at  

•Be aware of risks of mixing with other drugs, including alcohol 

• Use with others around or at an overdose prevention site (Vernon OPS at 250-503-3737)

• Take no more than one-10th of what you would normally use.

• Space out your doses

• Carry naloxone and know how to use it

• Get the LifeGuard app - lifeguarddh.com

• Call 211 or visit bc211.ca to find services near you