Published: December 8, 2025
In a significant step toward improving health, safety, and harm reduction, the University of Southern Maine recently implemented a new policy ensuring that the life-saving medication Naloxone (Narcan) is now easily accessible across all three campuses.
As of this fall, Narcan kits—which can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose—have been placed in every Automated External Defibrillator (AED) cabinet throughout the University of Southern Maine campuses. This policy is designed to improve accessibility for the campus community in the event of an Opioid overdose (which is a life-threatening medical emergency).
“Our priority is keeping our community safe. Making Narcan readily available on campus ensures that if a medical emergency occurs, anyone has the ability to save a life within seconds. It’s a simple, proven tool which strengthens our emergency response capabilities,” explains Chief of Police and Vice President of Public Safety Gráinne Perkins.
Chief Perkins also believes that education about Narcan is also an essential component of its introduction to the campus space. She argues that “ Narcan isn’t a judgment, it’s a lifeline. When we normalize Narcan use, we reinforce a culture of safety and underscore the importance of understanding adverse effects of medications on individuals.”
What Our Campus Community Needs to Know
The new policy places a strong focus on immediate action and ease of use:
- Dual Access: Every AED cabinet now contains both an AED unit and a Narcan kit.
- Administration: Anyone can administer Narcan. Formal training is helpful but not required, as clear instructions are included in every kit.
- The Critical Next Step: After administering Narcan, you must immediately call 911. Professional medical care is essential and required, even if the individual appears to regain consciousness.
Optional Training Sessions Offered
*Although staff use and training aren’t mandatory, USM will continue to offer optional training sessions for interested students, faculty, and staff throughout the academic year.
An in-person training session for students was held October 8th in Gorham, and a hybrid session, offering both an in-person option on the Portland campus and a Zoom option for those unable to attend in person, was held for employees on November 14th.
For departments, clubs, or other student organizations that wish to attend a general campus training or request a dedicated Narcan training session for their specific group, please reach out directly to Chris Corson at the ROCC ([email protected]).
*Only certain designated staff are mandated to carry/dispense Narcan as part of their role on campus.
