Get the Facts

    We make accurate information accessible so you can make informed decisions about harm reduction, safe consumption, substance use disorder treatment and more.

    On June 30th 2026, the Alberta Government closed the Supervised Consumption Site (SCS) at the Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre in Calgary despite advocates and researchers advising that the SCS is not the cause of public drug consumption and disorder.This decision has now made YOU a first responder. Please take care of those in need. Call 911, provide CPR, carry and administer naloxone.

    Myth: A recent study from Red Deer proved Safe Consumption Sites do not work

    The Red Deer SCS follow-up study was far too short of a follow-up period and too small of a sample group to draw any definitive conclusions- particularly about long-term treatment retention or opioid-related mortality (death rates). This study’s authors themselves acknowledge that their results “remain inconclusive” due to these limitations.
    -Dr. Thara Kumar

    Myth: Safe Consumption Sites increase crime

    McGill University examined nine Toronto safe consumption sites and 10 years of crime reports. Crime rates were found to either remain stable or decline. Despite this community pressure influenced the decision to close all nine sites in 2025.
    “People’s discomfort is understandable, but the crisis reflects deeper systemic issues"
    Dr. Dimitra Panagiotoglou

    Myth: Safe consumption sites increase strain on the healthcare system

    Use of safe consumption sites (SCS) have been found to significantly decrease the likelihood of emergency department (ED) visits, number of ED visits, likelihood of hospitalization and number of nights hospitalized among people who use drugs.Overburdened health care systems' need prevention strategies like SCS's to keep ED and EMS wait times down

    Myth: Safe Consumption Sites provide drugs

    Safe Consumption Sites provide sterile drug-use supplies for self-supplied substances. Sterile supplies decrease the risk of health problems (e.g. HIV or hepatitis C). SCS's also facilitate the disposal of drug use supplies, which reduces discarded needles in public spaces.

    Myth: Mandating people to go to treatment is the answer

    Addiction treatment systems have long been overburdened and struggling to intake those voluntarily seeking treatment. Long wait times, an undersupply of detox facilities, and a lack of services in rural areas are associated with worsening conditions for those waiting for treatment.

    Myth: Safe Consumption Sites have no benefit

    Safe Consumption Sites:- Prevent overdose deaths: There are no recorded fatal overdoses within SCS due to immediate intervention (naran, oxygen, etc.).- Increase service access: Staff help connect marginalized individuals to healthcare and social supports.

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