OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Osceola County held a community event on Thursday to mark National Fentanyl Awareness and Education Day.
During the gathering at the Hart Memorial Library, attendees learned about the dangers of fentanyl, how to recognize the signs of overdose, and the role Narcan (naloxone) plays in saving lives.
Narcan was available for individuals aged 18 and older, along with guidance on proper usage.
Martin Kohler, who is experiencing homelessness, attended the event and said it’s important to see the county educate the public on the dangers of fentanyl and what to do if someone overdoses.
“I gave up drugs a long time ago, but it’s out here and it’s bad,” Kohler said. “If I see somebody falling out, I’m just calling 911. I figure they know better what to do than I ever would.”
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Thursday’s event was happening as Florida has been seeing progress in the state’s fight against fentanyl.
In January, a report from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement showed fentanyl-caused deaths fell 12% in 2023.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Fentanyl has been found in street drugs and drug dealers have been known to add fentanyl to mimic prescription medications.
Signs of an overdose include small “pinpoint pupils,” falling asleep or losing consciousness, slow or weak breathing, discolored skin, and a limp body.
Anyone who suspects someone has overdosed should call 911 immediately, administer naloxone (Narcan) if available, lay the person on their side to prevent choking, and try to keep them awake and breathing until emergency assistance arrives.
[VIDEO: Volusia County’s Narcan vending machines]