As of earlier this month, Monroe County has seen an increase in opioid overdoses -- both fatal and non-fatal --compared to this time last year. The work of first responders who arrive at the scene can be the difference between life and death.
A new documentary called "Opioids from Inside: First Responders" explores the epidemic from the perspective of firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics who are on the front lines. The film airs on WXXI-TV on Tuesday, but first, we get a preview with the men and women featured in it. They discuss their work and how the crisis has affected them personally. Our guests:
- David Marshall, director and co-producer of "Opioids from Inside: First Responders"
- Lt. John Vagg, Rochester Fire Department
- Dr. Scott Dent, M.D., family medicine specialist at Rochester Regional Health
- Krista Lattuca, Rochester resident in recovery, and recovery coach at Rochester Regional Health