ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) – The Anderson County Coroner is trying to save more lives by educating the community.

Last year, there were 125 drug overdose deaths in Anderson County.

Around 45 people gathered at the Anderson Recreation Center to learn how to perform CPR, administer Narcan, and learn the dangers of drug addiction.

“I was an addict for 11 years, been to many rehabs to seek help and it didn’t quite work. Finally on August 14th 2021, I said I had enough, went to rehab, got clean and have been clean ever since,” said Amanda Evans.

Recently, Evans became a certified peer support specialist to help those currently struggling with addiction.

“I just want to help the community and I thought that this would be a great way to get some information and go out there to talk to other people,” said Evans.

During the community training, the coroner’s office demonstrated CPR chest compressions by placing two hands in the center of the chest.

“Minutes are precious. You have about four to six minutes to help someone by initiating CPR, getting a defibrillator and activating the EMS system,” said Greg Shore, Anderson County Coroner.

Officials said the correct way to give Narcan is to insert the nasal spray into the nostril and firmly press the nozzle.

The community training is a way to educate others about the opioid epidemic and provide free resources to change lives.

“It would be a success if we save one life or hundreds of lives but we think the education part can make a difference and we’re going to continue with our program and hope that we reach everybody in our county,” said Shore.

Evans said attending the training was well worth it.

“I know it’s something where with my past experience being a former drug addict, it is shameful and you don’t want to say anything but there are people out there that can help you and want to help you. It’s good to reach out to any of the programs that we have here in Anderson. Don’t be scared. If you want help, somebody is going to help you so reach out to them,” said Evans.

There are free Narcan kits at the Anderson County Coroner’s Office and Anderson Behavioral Health Services.