TRDP 4:19 SAFETY CHECK

Preparation before a possible risk, not an emergency response or safety assessment. It cannot make substance use risk-free or guarantee survival. If an overdose may be happening, call 911 immediately; do not finish the checklist first.

Choose the steps that fit your plans. Tick what you have arranged. Leave anything else unticked as a reminder. There is no score or safety rating.

[ ] I have considered changes in health, tolerance, supply or setting.
Read the tolerance and withdrawal information: https://therealdopeproject.com/#after-a-break

[ ] I have considered food, sleep and hydration. These do not prevent overdose.
Review the preparation boundaries: https://therealdopeproject.com/#419

[ ] I have left time for rest and after-effects, not only use.
Review my plan: https://therealdopeproject.com/#419

[ ] I have arranged someone able to respond, a check-in with location, timing and a missed-check plan, or explored a supervised service.
Explore support options: https://therealdopeproject.com/#support-contact-options

[ ] If in-person support is unavailable, I can call or text NORS at 1-888-688-6677 for virtual overdose prevention support.
Contact NORS: https://www.nors.ca/contact-us

[ ] Where opioid exposure is possible, naloxone is within reach and someone knows where it is.
Find naloxone and training: https://therealdopeproject.com/#naloxone

[ ] A phone is available and someone able to respond knows the location.
Read emergency response steps: https://therealdopeproject.com/#overdose-response

[ ] Don’t mix your fix: I have considered interactions, including alcohol, and can ask a pharmacist about medicines.
Read about planning: https://therealdopeproject.com/safety-guides/making-an-informed-choice-and-a-safety-plan

[ ] I have an unimpaired designated driver or another safe ride. I will not drive impaired.
Plan a safe ride: https://therealdopeproject.com/safety-guides/be-a-check-in-buddy-or-designated-driver

[ ] Substances and equipment are locked away from children and pets.
Read safe-storage guidance: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/health/campaigns/cannabis/health-effects.html

[ ] Dose low. Go slow. I know effects can be delayed and tolerance can fall after a break.
Read the tolerance warning: https://therealdopeproject.com/#after-a-break

[ ] I can ask about drug checking where available. A negative result cannot guarantee safety.
Read drug-checking limits: https://therealdopeproject.com/safety-guides/unknown-substances-and-drug-checking

[ ] I have new, sterile supplies where appropriate and will not share equipment.
Read equipment guidance: https://therealdopeproject.com/safety-guides/safer-equipment-and-infection-prevention

[ ] I have a sharps container for needles and a plan for local safe disposal.
Plan safe disposal: https://therealdopeproject.com/safety-guides/safer-equipment-and-infection-prevention

[ ] WARN (OTHERS): share dated warnings or observed concerns, label uncertainty and protect privacy. Emergency care comes first.
Read the WARN reminder: https://therealdopeproject.com/#warn-others

Never give food or drink to someone drowsy or unresponsive. Do not stop prescribed medicines to drive or act as a buddy; ask a pharmacist about impairment and interactions.

Avoiding recreational substance use avoids exposure to its risks. If you may be physically dependent—especially on alcohol or benzodiazepines—get medical advice before suddenly stopping or sharply reducing use; withdrawal can be dangerous. Do not stop prescribed medication without advice from your prescriber.

A buddy or remote service cannot guarantee rescue. The website does not monitor you, send alerts or summon help.

The TRDP checklist has not been clinically validated; independent clinical and lived-experience review remains pending.

Current checklist and sources: https://therealdopeproject.com/#419

The Real DOPE Project — Safety Is for Everyone.

Contact: therealdopeproject@gmail.com

Resource text updated: 2026-10-13. Earlier sources retain their individual review dates.

General education, not individual medical advice or first aid certification. In an emergency, call 911 and follow the dispatcher and your exact kit instructions.

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