Fentanyl Safety Starts with You.
Fentanyl is showing up in fake pills and other drugs. Learn how to protect yourself and look out for the people you care about.
Video: What You Need to Know About Fentanyl
Watch this brief video to learn about what fentanyl is, where its found, and how you can keep you and/or your loved ones safe.
How To Get Closer To Safe
The best way to stay safe is to not take any pills or drugs that are not from your doctor. But if you do, here are ways to protect yourself.
Test Before You Take Anything
Before you take anything, use fentanyl test strips to check the substance. Fentanyl cannot be seen, smelled, or felt. The only way to know if it is there is by testing it. These strips are 92-96% effective at detecting fentanyl.
Always Keep Narcan Nearby
Narcan is a nasal spray that can reverse an opioid overdose and save a life. You can spray it in someone’s nose if they stop breathing or look unresponsive. It is safe to use and easy to carry.
Never Use Anything Alone
If something goes wrong, having someone with you can save your life. Using alone means no one is there to help if you need it. Always try to be with someone you trust or use services that let someone check on you.
Did You Know?
Fentanyl is the number one cause of overdose deaths for people under 25 in the U.S.
- It only takes 2 milligrams of fentanyl about the size of a few grains of salt to be deadly
- Good Samaritan laws protect you from getting in trouble when you help someone during an overdose
Narcan is safe to use even if you’re not sure the person took opioids, it can’t hurt someone
Can I carry Narcan or test strips legally?
Yes, in most places you can legally carry Narcan (naloxone) and fentanyl test strips. You are not breaking any laws by keeping them with you.
Narcan
Legally available over the counter or by prescription in most U.S. states, including Ohio. Many pharmacies provide it.
Fentanyl Test Strips
Legal in most states, including Ohio. They are considered a harm reduction tool, not drug paraphernalia.
So yes, carrying Narcan and test strips is legal, safe, and recommended. It is about being prepared to help yourself or someone else in an emergency without worrying about getting in trouble.
What if I don’t never have/ never will use any substance?
That’s great to hear. Even if you don’t use substances and never plan to, it’s still important to know this information. Fentanyl has shown up in all kinds of drugs, even ones people don’t expect. You might have a friend, classmate, or sibling who doesn’t know the risks. Knowing what to do in an emergency or how to talk to someone else about fentanyl could help save a life.
How Accurate are Fentanyl Test Strips?
Fentanyl test strips can find fentanyl most of the time, about 92 to 96 percent. But they are not perfect. If you decide to take something, always know where Narcan is and never use alone.
Additional Resources
Access a directory of local services offering support, including Narcan distribution, overdose prevention programs, and counseling services.