Overdose Prevention Resources in South Jersey

Camden County recorded a historic 37% reduction in overdose deaths in 2024 — from 327 in 2023 to 206 in 2024. That progress is real, and it was driven in large part by expanded harm reduction: more naloxone in community hands, more fentanyl test strips in circulation, and more people connected to crisis services. This page is a hub for the overdose prevention resources available to South Jersey residents.

Prevention works. Every dose of naloxone in a community member's hands, every fentanyl test strip used before a dose, every person who calls the NJ HOPELINE instead of using alone — these interventions save lives. The 121 fewer deaths in Camden County in 2024 compared to 2023 represent real people who survived because of accessible resources.

If this is a medical emergency, call 911 now. If you or someone you love needs treatment support, call Hope Harbor Addiction Center 24/7 at (732) 523-5239.

Narcan (Naloxone): The Most Important Tool

Naloxone (Narcan) is the most critical overdose prevention tool available in South Jersey. It is a medication that rapidly reverses opioid overdose, restoring breathing within 2 to 5 minutes. It is safe, has no effect on people who have not taken opioids, and can be obtained for free in New Jersey.

How to use Narcan nasal spray:

1. Call 911 first
2. Lay the person on their back
3. Insert the nozzle into one nostril and press the plunger
4. Wait 2–3 minutes; give a second dose if no improvement
5. Put the person in the recovery position (on their side)
6. Stay until EMS arrives — Narcan wears off in 30–90 minutes

For fentanyl overdoses, two or more doses may be needed. For complete instructions: How to Get Free Narcan in New Jersey.

Fentanyl and Xylazine Test Strips

Fentanyl test strips are legal in New Jersey and available at NJ Harm Reduction Centers. They can detect fentanyl in a drug sample before use — potentially preventing an overdose before it happens.

Important limitations: Test strips cannot detect all fentanyl analogs. A negative result does not guarantee safety. Never use alone regardless of test results.

New Jersey also distributes xylazine test strips at Harm Reduction Centers (since January 2024). Xylazine (tranq) is increasingly found in South Jersey's drug supply and Narcan cannot reverse it — knowing it is present is critical information.

Learn more: Fentanyl Test Strips in New Jersey | Xylazine in the NJ Drug Supply

Crisis Lines: Available Right Now

Local Camden County Harm Reduction Resources

The Xylazine Problem: What South Jersey Residents Need to Know

Xylazine is a veterinary sedative that has been found mixed into South Jersey's fentanyl supply. It extends the duration of the high but introduces serious new dangers: Narcan cannot reverse it, it causes severe necrotic skin wounds, and its withdrawal is distinct from opioid withdrawal and requires specialized medical management.

For complete information: Xylazine in the New Jersey Drug Supply

Never Use Alone

The single most protective behavior available to anyone using substances where fentanyl may be present is not using alone. Fentanyl overdose can cause unconsciousness within minutes. Having someone present who knows how to respond — and has Narcan — is a lifesaving arrangement.

If you are in a situation where using alone is unavoidable, the Never Use Alone hotline (1-800-484-3731) provides a person to stay on the phone with you who will call 911 to your location if you stop responding.

When Prevention Becomes Treatment

Harm reduction and treatment are not opposites — they are points on the same continuum of care. Every person who survives an overdose because of Narcan has another chance at treatment and recovery. Every person who calls the NJ HOPELINE has an opportunity to connect with professional help.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to opioids, alcohol, or any substance in South Jersey, Hope Harbor Addiction Center offers comprehensive treatment at 1590 Kings Hwy North in Cherry Hill — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Learn more:
Free Narcan in New Jersey
Fentanyl Test Strips in NJ
Camden County Overdose Statistics 2024
Addiction Treatment in Cherry Hill, NJ