Portland police have begun testing a medication that can save people suffering from life-threatening drug overdoses.

Beginning this week, 13 Central Precinct officers will begin carrying Naloxone — also called Narcan — that helps reverse the effects of certain types of narcotics, specifically opiates like heroin.

Members of Portland Fire & Rescue have trained the volunteer officers on the use and application of Naloxone. The Portland Police Bureau will conduct the pilot project for a year and examine the results in January 2016.

This pilot project is being supervised by the Drugs and Vice Division, the unit charged with investigating drug-related deaths in Portland.

The officers trained on the use of Naloxone will work in districts with the highest concentration of opiate drug abuse and overdose incidents.

Anyone experiencing a drug overdose or knowing someone experiencing a drug overdose should call 9-1-1 immediately to receive potentially life-saving medical care.