Harm Reduction means using policies and practices to reduce the harm associated with risky or dangerous activities. We offer a variety of harm reduction programs that aim to reduce the negative health, social, and economic harms associated with substance use (e.g. alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and other drugs). Harm reduction services benefit people who use drugs, their families, and the community.

Harm reduction programs can:

• Prevent sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections
• Reduce sharing of needles and other substance-use equipment
• Reduce rates of Hepatitis B and C, and HIV
• Prevent drug poisonings
• Increase the safe disposal of used needles
• Increase referrals to treatment programs and social services

A common misconception is that harm reduction supports or encourages illicit substance use. Harm reduction does not encourage alcohol or drug use. Harm reduction programs give people the tools needed to reduce risk if they choose to engage in risky behaviours.

What Does Harm Reduction Look Like?

Harm reduction doesn't only apply to illegal substances. Examples of harm reduction activities include:

• Wearing a helmet when riding a bike
• Wearing a seatbelt in the car
• Wearing sunscreen when spending time outside
• Using a nicotine patch instead of smoking
• Drinking water and eating while you drink alcohol
• Understanding how to use naloxone 
• Using sterile needles if injecting substances