Overdose Prevention & Safety Tools
Learning how to use tools like Narcan and fentanyl test strips can feel like a lot to take in, but we are here to make the process simple and accessible. Whether you are checking your supply for safety or preparing to respond to an emergency, our resources provide the clear, step-by-step guidance you need to protect yourself and those around you.
Below are videos and written instructions on how to use our overdose prevention and safety tools.
Oraquick
This test checks for HIV by using a simple swab to collect fluid from your upper and lower gums.
🛑 Before you start, follow these rules for 30 minutes before you take the test:
- DO NOT eat or drink.
- DO NOT brush your teeth or use mouthwash.
- REMOVE dentures or any dental products.
Step 1: Set up the Tube
- Take the cap off the tube.
- Slide the tube into the stand so it stays upright.
⚠️ Careful: Do not spill the liquid inside.
Step 2: Swab Your Gums
- Take the test stick out of its wrapper. Do not touch the flat pad with your fingers.
- Press the flat pad against your upper gum and wipe it all the way across one time.
- Flip it over and press the flat pad against your lower gum and wipe it all the way across one time.
Step 3: Start the Test
- Put the test stick into the tube until it touches the bottom.
- Start your timer for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Read the Results
When the 20 minutes are up, you may read your results.
First To Know
This test looks for syphilis by using a quick prick to collect one small drop of blood from your finger.
🛑 Before you start, follow these rules for 30 minutes before you take the test:
- DRINK a glass of water to stay hydrated.
- WARM UP your hands by washing them in warm water or shaking them to get blood flowing.
Step 1: Prepare the Lancet
- Hold the Lancet by its flat sides.
- Twist the gray cap a quarter turn to unlock it.
- Twist it 5 or 6 more times, then pull the cap straight off.
⚠️ Careful: Do not press the release button yet!
Step 2: Prick Your Finger
- Clean the side of your fingertip with the alcohol swab.
- Place the Lancet against the side of your finger.
- Press the button. You will feel a quick prick.
- Squeeze your finger from the base to the tip until you have a large, full drop of blood.
Step 3: Fill the Test
- Touch the tip of the test stick directly to the blood drop.
- Keep adding drops until the "Fill Zone" window is completely full of blood.
- Tap the other end of the test twice on a table to make sure the blood moves inside.
Step 4: Wait and Read
Lay the test flat and start your timer for 15 minutes. When the time is up, read your results.
SHK
This test checks for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis by having you mail a small urine sample to a lab.
🛑 Before you start, follow these rules for 30 minutes before you take the test:
- ONLY COLLECT your sample on Sunday through Thursday.
- PLAN to drop your sample off at USPS within 24 hours of collecting it.
Step 1: Register Your Kit
- Go to app.simplehealthkit.com or scan the QR code on your card.
- Log in or create a new account.
- Enter the Sample ID found next to the QR code to register your kit.
- You must finish this registration before you collect your sample.
Step 2: Collect Your Sample
- Fill out the sample label with your name, birthday, and today's date, then stick it on the collection tube.
- Push the center of the urine cup to expand it.
- Pee into the cup until it is halfway full.
- Use the pipette (the dropper) to move urine from the cup into the tube until it reaches the top of the label.
- Close the tube cap very tightly.
Step 3: Mail the Kit
- Place the tube into the Specimen Bag.
- Place that bag inside the pre-labeled return envelope.
- Drop the envelope at a USPS mailbox or Post Office within 24 hours.
Step 4: Get Your Results
- Watch for a text message or email telling you your results are ready.
- Log into the portal at app.simplehealthkit.com to view your results.

