The Lemon Aide Project’s Host Box Program is a community-based initiative that installs publicly accessible Narcan (naloxone) boxes in high traffic areas so that lifesaving overdose reversal tools are available 24/7. Local businesses, organizations, and individuals volunteer to “host” a box on their property, while Lemon Aide supplies the box, installs it at no cost, and keeps it fully stocked with free Narcan and resource information. The goal is to empower everyday people to intervene in emergency situations, increase access to overdose prevention tools, and create a visible network of support that lets the community know help is always nearby.
By combining Narcan distribution with education, we strive to combat the fentanyl epidemic and promote a safer, more informed community.
Overdose deaths in the United States have reached record breaking levels, with more than 112,000 lives lost in 2023 alone, and fentanyl is now involved in nearly 7 out of every 10 of those deaths. What is even more alarming is that many victims never intended to take opioids at all; counterfeit pills and contaminated party drugs are flooding communities, and people are dying after taking just one dose. Narcan (naloxone) is a fast acting medication that can reverse an opioid overdose within minutes, and it is completely safe to use even if the person is not actually experiencing an opioid overdose. Every second counts, and without someone nearby who has Narcan, a person can die before paramedics arrive. Today’s overdose crisis is not “someone else’s problem” it is an emergency unfolding in schools, parks, workplaces, and neighborhoods across the country. Having Narcan available in public spaces gives everyday people the power to step in and save a life before it is too late. We have the tools to prevent these deaths, so it is not just important, it is our responsibility to use them.
How to Use Narcan (Naloxone)
Saving Lives with Compassion and Care
Narcan is a life‑saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. It is not about encouraging drug use—it is about protecting the precious lives of our loved ones, neighbors, and community members. People who are struggling with substance use deserve the chance to recover and heal, and Narcan gives them that chance. Having Narcan on hand means you care enough to act when every second counts.
When to Use Narcan
You should use Narcan if you suspect someone is experiencing an opioid overdose. Signs of an opioid overdose may include:
- The person is unresponsive or unconscious and will not wake up even when shaken or shouted at
- Slow or irregular breathing (or no breathing at all)
- Pale, blue or grayish skin, especially around lips and fingernails
- Gurgling or choking sounds
- Very small “pinpoint” pupils
If you see any of these signs, call 911 immediately and prepare to administer Narcan.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Use Narcan Nasal Spray
1. Call 911 First
Contact emergency services right away. Narcan can save a life, but medical attention is still needed.
2. Lay the Person on Their Back
Make sure their airway is clear and lay them flat on their back.
3. Prepare the Narcan Spray
Remove Narcan from its package. Hold the device with your thumb on the bottom of the plunger and two fingers on either side of the nozzle.
4. Place the Nozzle in the Nose
Gently insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril. The person does not need to be breathing for the medicine to work.
5. Press the Plunger
Firmly press the plunger to release the entire dose of Narcan into the nostril.
6. Wait and Monitor
Keep the person on their back. If they begin breathing, place them in the recovery position (on their side). If there is no response after 2–3 minutes and help has not yet arrived, use a second dose in the other nostril.
Recovery Position
After Narcan begins working, turn the person onto their side with the top knee bent and hand underneath their head. This prevents choking in case they vomit.
Why Narcan Matters
Narcan is not about enabling drug use. It is about saving lives and giving people the chance to recover, reconnect, and rebuild. Every life lost to overdose is one too many. By carrying Narcan and knowing how to use it, you are standing for compassion, dignity, and harm reduction. You are choosing hope over tragedy.
Thank you for caring. Thank you for being prepared. You might save a life.
