Turner Hall unveils new harm reduction vending machine with free Narcan, fentanyl test strips

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- CBS 58 was in attendance as a new harm reduction vending machine was unveiled at Milwaukee's Turner Hall Friday morning. It's a machine that dispenses lifesaving Narcan, used to treat drug overdoses, for free. 

Fentanyl test strips are also available. It's one of the latest weapons in the fight against the opioid epidemic.

"Every family has been rocked by this or is affected by this, and for anyone to have the opportunity to have the ability to save a life as simply as it would be, to -- just a couple squirts up the nose of Narcan, without the threat of accidental overdose, that's great. If we save one life, that's fantastic," said Emilio De Torre, executive director of Milwaukee Turners. 

The machine is located inside the hall on Vel R. Phillips Avenue downtown, but anyone can come in and use it. 

The plan is to put more lifesaving products inside the machine. The Milwaukee Turners will conduct a survey to find out what people want.

"It's not enough for hopes and prayers. It is vital that we all do what we can do and provide the resources and tools that people need to have a safe, flourishing city for everybody."