Free Narcan training sessions coming to Merrill, Tomahawk

The Lincoln County Health Department, in partnership with the Lincoln County Opioid Settlement Task Force, is offering two free community training sessions this spring focused on recognizing and responding to opioid overdoses.
The first session is scheduled for Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 5 to 6 p.m. at the T.B. Scott Free Library Community Room, 106 First Street, Merrill. A second session follows on Thursday, May 14, also from 5 to 6 p.m., at the Tomahawk Public Library Community Room, 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Tomahawk. Both sessions are open to adults, free of charge, and include light snacks and refreshments.
Deanna Engel, a public health nurse with the Lincoln County Health Department, will lead both “Recognize and Respond to Opioid Overdose Using Naloxone (Narcan) - The Basics” presentations. Topics will include opioid basics, how to identify the signs and symptoms of an overdose, step-by-step response actions, how to administer Naloxone (Narcan) nasal spray, the Good Samaritan Law, and the complexity and stigma surrounding opioid use disorder.
Each participant will receive a free two-pack of Narcan nasal spray — an opioid overdose reversal medication.
“Narcan can’t do any good if it is not available for people when they need it,” Engel said. “In Wisconsin, anyone who may have a need to use Narcan may carry it without a prescription.”
While no prior training is required to carry or use Narcan, Engel said even basic instruction can make a meaningful difference in whether someone feels prepared to act in an emergency.
Those with questions can contact Engel at deanna.engel@co.lincoln.wi.us or 715.539.1369. For more information about the Lincoln County Opioid Settlement Task Force, visit co.lincoln.wi.us/health/page/lincoln-county-opioid-settlement-task-force.