fentanyl. it's here. let's do something about it.
Is it in Summit?
Fentanyl is all over the country. There were almost 3,000 drug related deaths in New Jersey in 2022 and fentanyl deaths are rising steadily. In New York City in 2022 fentanyl was a factor in roughly 80% of overdose deaths. 42% of pills picked off the street that were tested for fentanyl by the DEA not only contains fentanyl, but over 2 mg of it - a deadly dose.
What is fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. And fentanyl has very quickly made it’s way into every street drug available and counterfeit pills made to look just like prescription. A piece of fentanyl the size of a grain of sugar can kill. Once ingested, breathing slows and eventually stops, Naloxone (Narcan®), a nasal spray, is used to reverse opioid overdoses and works by blocking the effects of opiates on the brain, thereby helping to restore breathing.
Raise awareness
We need better fentanyl education so that if someone chooses to try drugs, it won’t be their last choice. Updating The Summit School District's drug education program to include fentanyl and Naloxone (Narcan®) education is needed immediately. Naloxone distribution and training through public schools and the town of Summit.
You can help
To help, start by signing our petition to let the town council know you support increased fentanyl education in schools and Naloxone (Narcan®) distribution. Educate your loved ones about the dangers of fentanyl and keep Naloxone in your home. To find out where to get Naloxone, click the read more link below.