SafeSpot: preventing overdose deaths on the phone
Safe Spot is a 24/7 virtual spotting service that helps keep you safe while using drugs alone. This free and confidential phone line is staffed by operators who have lived experience with overdose and will stay on the line with you while you use to make sure you are safe and, if necessary, get help for you. All the information you provide to a SafeSpot operator is kept confidential and is not stored in a database.
How it works
- Place a toll-free call to SafeSpot at 800-972-0590. A brief disclaimer message will be given before being transferred to a hotline operator.
- The operator will take you through a short, confidential intake process, which includes getting an exact location that will only be used in case of emergency, the drug you plan to use, and how it will be taken. This helps the operator know roughly how long the call should last.
- Once you have used, you and operator will stay in verbal communication throughout the call until both decide it is safe to end the call. Note: you can use multiple times throughout the call.
- If you stop responding at any point during the call for more than 1 minute, the operator will get you help either through a predetermined responder, like a friend or neighbor you’ve chosen, or by notifying your local emergency medical services and will stay on the line until help arrives.
A vital tool
SafeSpot is an important tool to prevent overdose deaths in MA. SafeSpot originally began as Never Use Alone Massachusetts in 2020 and in 2023, the line received state support and funding in partnership with Boston Medical Center and RIZE Massachusetts as the Massachusetts Overdose Prevention Helpline. The funding allowed the line to hire more staff and raise awareness of the service. Recently, the hotline rebranded as SafeSpot to reflect its mission of offering a safe and supportive space for people using drugs.
SafeSpot supervised its 10,000th use event on November 13, 2024, highlighting the demand for the vital service. If you plan to use alone, SafeSpot can be there with you – give them a call at 800-972-0590.
To learn more about SafeSpot and their services, visit https://safe-spot.me/.