Nashville Police Officer's Personal Mission to Combat Overdose Epidemic with Narcan

The Overdose Epidemic in Nashville

• 📈 Despite a national drop in overdose deaths, Nashville faces an ongoing challenge due to its large tourist population.
• 💔 Data shows over 2500 overdose deaths in Nashville since 2020, with thousands of 911 calls and ER visits.

The "One Box" Initiative

• 📦 Police Sergeant Mike Hotz is installing "One Box" kits, each containing two doses of Naloxone (Narcan), a nasal spray that can reverse overdoses.
• 💡 These kits are inexpensive and include a video to teach users how to administer the life-saving medication.
• 🎯 The "One Box" initiative is particularly suited for busy venues like bars on Nashville's Broadway, where staff turnover is high.

Sergeant Hotz's Personal Motivation

• 🎖️ A former Army infantryman, Sergeant Hotz witnessed soldiers struggle with addiction and overdose after returning from combat.
• 🎯 His personal mission drives him to install these boxes, seeing each one as a potential life saved.
• ✅ He has personally installed 100 "One Box" units, demonstrating his commitment to combating the epidemic.

Community Impact and Support

• 🤝 Bartenders and venue staff feel more prepared knowing these overdose reversal kits are readily available.
• 💬 The presence of Narcan provides comfort and a critical safety net for those working in high-traffic tourist areas.