By Cody Mello-Klein | cmelloklein@alextimes.com

After six people overdosed in Fairfax County on Tuesday morning, the city issued a warning of what is believed to be a deadly batch of fentanyl-laced cocaine that is circulating throughout Northern Virginia, according to a news release.

The city advises the use of Narcan, a nasal spray that can help those who are overdosing from substances that contain opioids. Residents interested in obtaining free Narcan or fentanyl test strips that can be used to detect fentanyl-laced drugs prior to use can email their name and address to opioids@alexandriava.gov to have these supplies mailed to them. The city also noted that anyone who administers Narcan to assist another person who is overdosing is protected from liability by the Good Samaritan Law.

In immediately life-threatening situations, the city advises residents to call 911. People who call for help if they are overdosing or if someone else is overdosing are not subject to arrest or prosecution.