A HIGH-profile campaign has been launched to help protect drug users who have taken overdoses.

Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen (Drug and Alcohol Action Teams) DAAT's, have launched the OD 999 drive in a bid to reduce the number of deaths from overdoses.

Leaflets, posters, and cards have been distributed to agencies across the area that help drug users, Bosses said that a key part of it was encouraging people to call an ambulance in the event of an overdose as drug users are often too scared to seek help in the case of an emergency.

A number of overdose training events will be staged across Lancashire, which will provide life-saving advice.

And a website, www.od999.org, has also been set up where people can access information on the recovery position.

The campaign has relied on the involvement of reformed and reforming drug addicts who have helped choose appropriate campaign materials, with the aim of reaching this vulnerable and often difficult to reach group.

Former heroin addict for eight years Paul said: "When I was addicted to drugs I lost everything, being involved in OD 999 has meant that I can use what was a very sad and dark time in my life to hopefully help someone. "

Mark Hindle chair of Lancashire Drug and Alcohol Action Team said: "As a drug and alcohol action team we have a responsibility to tackle substance misuse in Lancashire.

"This campaign will help to create awareness to those who need help the most. By encouraging calls to the emergency services we can also promote the specialised treatment and help that is available."