Executive Director Rebekah Salazar, Privacy and Diversity Office | U.S. Customs and Border Protection
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) at the San Luis Port of Entry intervened in a critical situation, saving a woman's life during an apparent opioid overdose. The incident took place on Tuesday, October 8, around 11:00 a.m., when CBP officers encountered the unconscious woman, a U.S. citizen, who had been brought to the San Luis I Port of Entry from Mexico by her family due to a medical emergency.
The CBP EMTs quickly assessed that the woman was showing signs of an opioid overdose, such as pinpoint pupils and very shallow breathing. A CBP EMT administered Narcan, which rapidly improved her condition as she began to regain consciousness and her breathing stabilized.
The officers continued to monitor her condition until Somerton EMS arrived and transported her to a nearby medical facility for further care.
Chris Leon, Area Port Director for San Luis, expressed his appreciation for the team's efforts: “We have a team of certified EMTs made up of CBP Agriculture Specialists and Officers that provide medical attention to those in need at the port of entry,” he said. “I am proud of the CBP EMTs who saved this woman’s life and grateful to our CBP EMT team who continue to aid the traveling public, our community, and port personnel when needed.”
CBP's Office of Field Operations is responsible for anti-terrorism missions at U.S. ports. Officers screen all individuals, vehicles, and goods entering the country while facilitating legitimate trade and travel. Their duties also include narcotics interdiction, enforcing immigration laws, protecting agriculture from pests and diseases, among other responsibilities.
As America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 members, U.S. Customs and Border Protection serves as the nation's frontline defense on land, air, and sea. They ensure safe travel and trade while enhancing national security through various strategies.
