Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is the Overdose Information Network?
A: The Overdose Information Network (ODIN) was created in 2018 to track the increase in overdoses across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) maintains the platform.
Q:Who can have access?
A: Access to the Overdose Spike Alert system is limited to Local and State Leaders.
Q:What is meant by Justification?
A: We ask that you articulate why you should have access. Currently, the only non-law enforcement participants (as outlined in Act 158 of 2022, the Overdose Mapping Act) are local leaders. If you feel you meet this requirement, please explain your reason for access in this area.
Q:What if my information changes?
A: You will need to go to the ODIN Spike Alerts homepage and click on “Request Info Change” to update/change your information. If you are requesting a change to your profile, please be aware that it will take some time to alter your profile, and you may get alerts that you have opted out of the change.
Q:How do I stop Texts?
A: Text "STOP" to 1-855-236-5120.
Q:How do I re-start texts if I stopped them in the past?
A: Text "START" to 1-855-236-5120.
Q:How do I delete my account?
A: You will need to go to the ODIN Spike Alerts homepage and click on “Contact Us” to remove your account. Once this is executed, if you want to restart the Spike Notifications, you will have to complete an Alert Subscription to reestablish access if desired.
Q:Why do you need all of this information?
A: The information requested will help the ODIN team determine the need for access and how your profile should be built.
Q:How long will it take to get added to the Spike Alert Notification?
A: With the number of possible individuals being added to the notification process, we are anticipating approximately 30 days to complete the registration and the building of your access. Hopefully, this time will become less as we streamline our processes.
Q:Will the community be notified of an abnormal increase in overdoses in any given area in the Commonwealth?
A: Yes, but notification of a spike in overdoses through this system is based on the incident being entered into the Overdose Information Network, so it will be much quicker. The community may find out through conventional means.
Q:Is victim data available?
A: No, Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is not available regarding overdoses or the use of an overdose reversal drug. The entry of information is only used to assist local and state leaders in identifying an increase in overdoses in any given area of interest and then to provide the instance of overdose to those leaders to better react to the issue at hand.
