RAPID CITY, S.D.(KOTA)- With hard drugs as prevalent as they are in Western South Dakota, it’s important to remember addiction is as much a public health issue as it is a law enforcement issue.

Offering this reminder is Tessa Jaeger, public information officer for the Rapid City Fire Department, an organization taking an active role in the narcotics issue with local police.

The RCFD, which also serves as the communities’ ambulance service, stocks Narcan on ambulances for this exact reason.

Jaeger offered her take on the drug situation in Rapid City.

The RCFD also recently took part in ballistic vest training with the RCPD, training Jaeger said could be lifesaving in an active shooter situation.