The NYS Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners, in Association with the NYS Association of Counties, Launch Opioid Crisis Ad

The New York State Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners, in partnership with the New York State Association of Counties, are proud to present a marketing campaign designed to bring awareness to the signs of opioid abuse. This eye-opening campaign will run throughout New York State. :30 second vignettes will run on television in all NYS markets and a long form :60 second message will be delivered digitally, as well. A comprehensive website, seethesignssavealife.org was created to anchor this campaign and will be a resource for anyone who is affected by this fast growing epidemic. Scott Schmidt, President, NYSCCME, explains why his organization was compelled to address this important issue.

"The rationale behind this PSA was simple. We as Coroners, Medical Examiners and Funeral Directors are tired of watching people die senselessly. While we aren't on the front lines of this epidemic, (such as Fire and EMS personnel,) we are on the front line of dealing with the families during the aftermath as the last responders. We are charged with the constant mantra of family members emphatically denying that their loved one used drugs. We are constantly the scapegoat for the overwhelming and often times heart-wrenching displays of grief and violent emotion because we are the ones with the answer that no one wants to hear. 'Your loved one died of a drug overdose.' The far-reaching effects of a drug overdose death are mind blowing. NYSCCME felt that by showing THE AFTER effects of using these lethal substances with an 'in-your-face' approach, we might be able to save at least one life."

Stephen Acquario, Executive Director of NYSAC, further details why they participated.

"From 'first responder' law enforcement receiving calls for help, to the 'last responder' Coroners and Medical Examiners confirming the cause of death, local government officials confront the effects of addiction and opioid abuse in our communities every day. We need to continually educate and inform to heighten the danger associated with opioid abuse. We are hopeful that this campaign will raise awareness of the signs of addiction before it's too late. We can all encourage our families, friends, and neighbors to seek help and break the all too familiar cycle of use, abuse, addiction, overdose and death. It's never too late to see the signs and save a life."

Trellis Marketing Inc., an advertising agency and video production company based in Buffalo, NY, was hired to plan and execute this important campaign. To view our video and learn more, visit seethesignssavealife.org.

About NYSACCME:
The New York State Association of County Coroners and Medical Examiners, was organized in 1977 to better serve death investigators in the advancement of forensic Science and its applications to death investigation.

About NYSAC:
New York State Association of Counties' mission is to represent, educate and advocate for New York's counties and the thousands of elected and appointed county officials who serve the public.

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