2 sudden deaths in Thunderchild First Nation may be fentanyl overdoses: Sask. RCMP

The sudden deaths of two people in Thunderchild First Nation may be the result of fentanyl overdoses, Saskatchewan RCMP say, prompting a warning from police about dangerous drugs circulating in the western Saskatchewanarea.

The two people died Thursday in separate incidents, police said in a Friday news release.

Their preliminary investigation suggests fentanyl may have been involved, but the cause of death can't beconfirmed until a toxicology report is done by the Saskatchewan Coroners Service, RCMP said.

Theirinvestigations are still ongoing.

RCMP are warning the public of the possibility of dangerous illicit drugs circulating in the Turtleford detachment area, which includes Thunderchild First Nation, northwest of North Battleford.

RCMP said during a Friday traffic stop inThunderchild First Nation, officers seized drugs thattested positive for fentanyl.

Police are asking for the public's help to "remove these dangerous substances from our communities" by calling 310-RCMP, orCrime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, to report drug trafficking, the release said.

The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides somelegal protection for anyone looking for emergency help due to an overdose, RCMP say.

There are services available to help people who areoverdosing like naloxone kits, and preventative measures liketake-home drug testing strips, the RCMPrelease said.More information on where to find those itemsis on the province's website.

Some overdose symptoms to watch forare weak or no breathing, gurgling or choking sounds, blue lips or fingernails, and appearingdizzy or confused, according to RCMP.