High school and college students may hesitate to call 9-1-1 for a friend overdosing, likely fearing trouble.
That’s what makes this PSA so important.
It is crucial to call 911 immediately if a friend is overdosing. Overdoses are medical emergencies that require professional intervention. Calling 911 ensures that trained medical personnel arrive quickly to provide life-saving assistance. Additionally, reporting an overdose can protect both the individual experiencing the overdose and those who are present from potential legal consequences. Remember, time is of the essence in these situations, and swift action can make a significant difference in saving a life.
The Mahwah Police Department is deeply honored to actively participate in supporting Mental Health Awareness Month, alongside the Bergen County Juvenile Officers Association. This meaningful collaboration has stemmed from a groundbreaking initiative led by multiple esteemed agencies, including the Bergen County Police Chiefs Association, the Bergen County Prevention Coalition, and Alumni in Recovery. A pivotal component of this initiative is a poignant PSA video titled "BREATHE," which unfolds as a raw first-person short film portraying high school students grappling with the fear of legal repercussions when seeking help for a friend who has overdosed by dialing 9-1-1. Spearheaded by the dedicated President of the Bergen County Juvenile Officers Association, Glen Rock Police Officer Matthew Stanislao, this initiative serves as a united effort by both local and county agencies across Bergen County to raise awareness and advocate for the implementation of New Jersey's Good Samaritan Law.
BREATHE is a first-person POV short film in which high school students worry about getting in trouble for calling 911 for a friend who has overdosed.
The New Jersey Good Samaritan Law aims to promote timely medical intervention during drug overdose incidents by granting immunity to those seeking help for an individual in need. By encouraging individuals to call 9-1-1, stay on the scene, offer assistance, and provide the victim with a chance for survival, this law underscores the importance of swift action in saving lives. To further understand the impact and importance of this legislation, we invite you to view a brief PSA that takes less than five minutes of your time – it could make a significant difference in an emergency situation.