SKAGIT COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Officials in Skagit County are warning the public over an alarming rise in fentanyl related overdoses.

Skagit County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) says it’s responded to nearly 20 overdose calls this month, including nine overdose deaths. Five of those deaths occurred in the past week.

The Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement Unit believes that common street drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine are being laced with “killer” batches of fentanyl. It says the affected drugs will sometimes burn with a blueish tint.

Skagit County EMS is urging the community to call 9-1-1 if they encounter an overdose, administer Naloxone if it’s available and give the victim CPR until first responders arrive. EMS adds that the Good Samaritan Law protects both the caller and the overdose victim from drug possession charges.