CHELSEA, MASS. (WHDH) - CHELSEA, Mass. (WHDH) — Three Chelsea police officers were taken to the hospital as a precaution after responding to drug overdoses on Friday.
First responders said they were initially called to Williams Street for a report of a car crash. When they arrived on scene, crews said they found three adults who had apparently overdosed inside a car. Chelsea Deputy Fire Chief John Quatieri said 10 doses of Narcan was used between all three people in order to revive them.
“Unfortunately it’s something first responders all over are dealing with,” said Quatieri. “This is the second incident we’ve had in the last month where there was a possible exposure to fentanyl.”
Extra crews were called in to check for hazardous materials after first responders found an unknown substance inside the car. Quatieri said the police officers were taken to the hospital as a precaution because they felt lightheaded. Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes said his officers were exposed to fentanyl. All three officers have since been released from the hospital.
Kyes said the incident prompted him to change department policy. Chelsea police officers responding to a potential overdose will now be outfitted with special gloves and other protective gear, including eye protection and face masks.
The three people found unresponsive in the car were also taken to the hospital. Police said the driver will be charged with operating under the influence.
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