Fentanyl Awareness
Fentanyl and other substances are negatively impacting the health of youth and adults in our region. Be informed about the serious risks of fentanyl and learn how you can protect yourself, your family, and others.
Did you know:
Fentanyl is a deadly synthetic opioid typically pressed into fake pills but also found laced in other street drugs, possibly including marijuana
MOST street pills are laced with fentanyl.
Illicit fentanyl is 50X more potent than heroin.
A very small dose of fentanyl can be lethal – as little as the amount that fits on the tip of a pencil (2 milligrams).
There is no "trusted source" for street drugs.
Keep yourself and others safe:
Talk early and often with your children about substance use. Teach them age-appropriate facts and clearly communicate your expectations. Listen without judgement to their questions. Visit Start Talking Now or Talk. They Hear You. for tips on talking with your children.
Don't take any pill or medicine unless prescribed by your doctor and purchased at a reputable pharmacy. Parents can tell young children to never take any pill unless they are given to them by a doctor, nurse, or parent because it could seriously harm them.
Report concerns. The Say Something program allows youth to submit secure, anonymous safety concerns to help someone who may hurt themselves or others. Call 911 if in question.
Understand Good Samaritan Laws. There are legal protections when you are trying to assist anyone potentially overdosing.
Talk to a YFS Counselor. YFS counselors are in every public school and trained to respond or refer youth and families concerned about substances.
Naloxone saves lives. Naloxone (Narcan) is an opioid overdose reversal medicine that can be given to any person suspected of an overdose without harm. Naloxone is available free online or for purchase at local pharmacies. Mercer Island first responders carry Narcan and it is accessible at MIHS, CREST, and IMS.
We are here to support you:
The City’s MIYFS Confidential intake line offers free consultation and referral: (206) 275-7657
Note: Always consult with your medical provider for medical advice, ask your pharmacist about how to administer Narcan, and contact your school nurse if you have questions about Narcan in the MISD schools.
Two Milligram Murderer
Listen to a podcast by MIHS student, Maggie Blohm, winner of the New York Times 6th Annual Student Podcast Contest. Maggie’s podcast, "The Two Milligram Murderer,” explores the real impact of Fentanyl with interviews from a pediatrician, the DEA, and sadly, a mom. More information here.