Fentanyl continues to claim countless lives, and so the San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health has launched a campaign to raise awareness about overdoses on the substance.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times stronger than heroin, and even a small amount – whether taken on purpose or unintentionally – can cause an overdose.
The County’s messaging is “Fentanyl Doesn’t Care. But We Do,” and features stories from individuals affected by the crisis.
County Board of Supervisors Chair Dawn Rowe said, “There is a misperception that fentanyl only affects drug addicts when in reality, it’s affecting a broad segment of our community. This campaign will help shed light on the reality of the fentanyl crisis and help us save lives.”
Recognizing the signs of opioid overdose can save a life.
Here are some things to look for:
- Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
- Falling asleep or losing consciousness
- Slow, weak, or no breathing
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Limp body
- Cold and/or clammy skin
- Discolored skin (especially in lips and nails)
The High Desert Emergency Action Alliance is providing free naloxone, in the form of Narcan nasal spray, to anyone who asks for it, and is not requiring any personal information, insurance or identification. They will be providing educational materials and naloxone training to those who request it.
To acquire free naloxone, you can visit the High Desert Emergency Action Alliance’s Yucca Valley headquarters, located at 57353 Twentynine Palms Highway, Suite B, or call 760-853-0220
Link:
High Desert Emergency Action Alliance’s Fentanyl Information / Naloxone Distribution
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