Colby Police Chief Explains How NARCAN Works After Statewide Distribution Effort
- Kristina Hemel
- Mar 6
- 3 min read
Following the recent visit from Kris Kobach to northwest Kansas, many community members have questions about NARCAN and how it works. To help answer those questions, NWKS Radio’s Kristina sat down with Jake Hess, Chief of Police for the Colby Police Department.
The conversation comes after NARCAN distribution boxes were installed at Colby Community College and Fort Hays Tech Northwest as part of a statewide initiative from the Kansas Attorney General’s Office.
What Is NARCAN?
Chief Hess explained that NARCAN, also known as naloxone, is an emergency medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.
“It’s an emergency opioid overdose treatment,” Hess said. “If someone has accidentally or intentionally taken too much of an opioid, NARCAN can reverse the effects.”
Opioids include substances such as fentanyl, prescription pain medications, and other drugs that can slow or stop breathing when taken in dangerous amounts. NARCAN works by blocking the receptors in the body that allow opioids to affect breathing.
The Growing Concern of Fentanyl
Hess noted that fentanyl is currently the biggest concern for law enforcement and health officials across Kansas and the United States.
“Fentanyl is the main one we’re on the lookout for,” Hess said. “It can be mixed into other illicit substances without people realizing it.”
Because fentanyl is extremely potent and easily absorbed, even small amounts can cause an overdose. That’s why officials are encouraging more people to carry NARCAN.
Signs Someone May Be Overdosing
Hess said there are several warning signs that someone may be experiencing an opioid overdose. These include:
Becoming extremely lethargic or appearing to fall asleep suddenly
Unresponsiveness
Gasping or irregular breathing
Blue or gray coloring around lips or fingernails
Very small or “pinpoint” pupils
“If you think someone is having an overdose, give the NARCAN as soon as you can,” Hess said.
How NARCAN Is Used
NARCAN is simple to administer and does not require medical training. The medication is delivered through a nasal spray.
“It’s similar to an allergy nasal spray,” Hess explained. “You insert the nozzle into the nose and press the plunger to deliver the medicine.”
If NARCAN is given to someone who is not actually experiencing an opioid overdose, it will not harm them.
“NARCAN is very safe,” Hess said. “Even if someone receives it accidentally, it typically won’t cause any adverse reaction.”
Call 911 After Using NARCAN
Even after NARCAN is administered, Hess stressed that emergency medical help is still necessary.
“You should always call 911,” he said. “NARCAN is just the first step. The opioid can last longer in the body than the NARCAN does, so additional medical care may be needed.”
Why More NARCAN in the Community Matters
The Colby Police Department already carries NARCAN, but Hess says having more available throughout the community increases the chances of saving a life.
“The more that’s out there, the better,” he said. “Just like AEDs, having them available around the community improves the chances someone can respond quickly.”
NARCAN kits are now available for free at Colby Community College and Fort Hays Tech Northwest, and anyone in the community can pick one up.
Residents who have questions about NARCAN can contact the Colby Police Department, local EMS, or healthcare providers for more information.
Comments