Overdose doesn’t happen because someone is careless. It happens because drugs are unpredictable — potency changes, tolerance drops, and bodies react differently. Harm reduction is about staying alive. Here are the most effective ways to reduce overdose risk: 1️⃣ Don’t use alone If something goes wrong, another person can act. If you are alone, use a check-in system or an overdose prevention line where available. 2️⃣ Start low, go slow Especially with a new batch or after a break. Your tolerance drops faster than you think. 3️⃣ Avoid mixing substances The biggest overdose risk comes from combining drugs — especially: Opioids + benzos Opioids + alcohol Stimulants + depressants 4️⃣ Carry naloxone (Narcan) If opioids are involved at all, naloxone saves lives. Learn how to use it. Tell others where it is. 5️⃣ Test what you’re using Drug checking strips (fentanyl, xylazine) reduce unknown risk. “Trusted source” does not equal “safe.” 6️⃣ Look out for each other Overdose prevention is community care. If someone seems too sedated, slow breathing, blue lips, or unresponsive — act immediately. 7️⃣ After a break = highest risk Detox, hospital stays, incarceration, or illness all lower tolerance. This is when most fatal overdoses happen.