The opioid crisis has taken a devastating toll on communities across the United States, and Southern California is no exception. To combat the rising threat of fentanyl-related overdoses, the Joint Regional Intelligence Center (JRIC), in partnership with the Overdose Response Strategy (ORS), has undertaken a comprehensive landscape analysis.

This analysis spans seven counties in Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura County.

The Goal? 

To identify and provide access to free services for those in need of fentanyl test strips, naloxone, and prevention/treatment services. 

The Need for Action

The opioid crisis has grown increasingly dire in recent years, with fentanyl emerging as a particularly lethal component of this epidemic. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, making it a significant contributor to opioid-related overdoses. To address this crisis, it is imperative to provide resources and support to those at risk and their communities.

The Landscape Analysis

The landscape analysis is a pioneering effort to map out the availability of free services related to fentanyl across Southern California. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between individuals in need and the essential resources required for their safety and recovery. The seven counties covered by the analysis represent a substantial portion of the region’s population, making this endeavor all the more significant.

Accessible Resources

Recognizing the diversity of the Southern California population, the JRIC and ORS have gone the extra mile by providing resources in both English and Spanish. This inclusivity ensures that language barriers do not hinder individuals from accessing life-saving assistance. Whether you speak English or Spanish, these resources are readily available to you, reaffirming the commitment to leaving no one behind in the battle against opioid addiction. By clicking on a specific county and version, users can access a one-page list of free fentanyl resources. 

The opioid crisis is an ever-evolving challenge. These resources will be updated every six months. This commitment to ongoing improvement ensures that individuals and organizations can rely on accurate and up-to-date information when assisting those in need. 

Sharing the Lifeline

By identifying and sharing these resources, we empower individuals and organizations to take action, save lives, and build healthier communities. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against fentanyl poisonings.

Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!

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In a significant step towards combating the alarming rise of fentanyl-related fatalities, Narcan, a life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, is set to become more accessible than ever. Major retailers, including CVS, Walmart, Walgreens, and Rite-Aid, are now stocking their shelves with Narcan, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the devastating opioid crisis that continues to plague our communities.

The Urgent Need for Narcan in California

The urgency of this development cannot be overstated, particularly in California, where the illicit use of fentanyl has reached catastrophic proportions. Recent statistics reveal that a staggering 117

Californians succumb to illicit fentanyl poisonings every week. This harrowing reality underscores the critical importance of Narcan’s widespread availability, as it has the potential to save countless lives and serve as a crucial tool in the fight against this deadly epidemic.

FentanylSolution.org: A Beacon of Hope

In response to this dire situation, our organization has emerged as a beacon of hope and a key player in the battle against opioid overdoses. Operating as a Naloxone Distribution

Center, we have taken significant strides to ensure that Narcan is easily accessible to those who need it most. Our organization’s mission revolves around providing immediate access to Narcan, with the ultimate goal of minimizing the tragic loss of life caused by fentanyl overdoses.

Convenient Access in Newport Beach

Our office is located in Newport Beach, CA. We offer a readily available resource for anyone seeking Narcan. Our office serves as a welcoming and nonjudgmental space

for individuals, families, and concerned citizens to obtain this life-saving medication. In a crisis where time is of the essence, we ensure that Narcan is just a visit away. Please call 888-931-6244 for more information. 

The arrival of Narcan at major retailers and the dedication of our organization mark a turning point in the fight against the opioid epidemic, particularly in California. With hundreds of lives lost weekly to illicit fentanyl use, the need for accessible Narcan has never been greater. It is a critical tool that belongs in every first aid kit, and its presence on store shelves signifies progress towards a safer, more informed, and compassionate society. As we continue this battle against opioid overdoses, let us remember that knowledge, empathy, and readily available resources like Narcan can be the difference between life and death, offering hope to countless individuals and their families.

Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!

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The fentanyl crisis has emerged as one of the most pressing public health concerns in recent years, claiming countless lives and devastating communities around the world. In the face of this alarming epidemic, organizations and initiatives that strive to combat the spread of fentanyl and raise awareness about its dangers play a crucial role. Today, we delve into FentanylSolution.org, an organization making its mark in the fentanyl space, and we explore our debut video, which serves as an introduction to our mission and vision.

 Setting the Stage: The Fentanyl Crisis Unveiled

The video commences by providing an overview of the gravity of the fentanyl crisis, delving into statistics and personal stories that underscore the devastating impact this synthetic opioid has had on individuals, families, and communities. The narrative skillfully presents the urgency of the issue, setting the stage for the need for collaborative efforts to combat fentanyl-related harms.

 Meet FentanylSolution.org: An Organization with a Vision

FentanylSolution.org takes center stage as the video transitions to introduce the organization itself. The viewers are introduced to the organization that tackles the fentanyl crisis head-on. Its shared dedication to finding solutions is evident, instilling hope and optimism in viewers that progress can be made.

 Pillars of Action: The Multi-Faceted Approach

One of the strengths of FentanylSolution.org’s debut video lies in its interpretation of the organization’s multi-faceted approach to tackling the fentanyl crisis. Some of these pillars of action are:

• Prevention and Education: The organization emphasizes the importance of spreading awareness and providing accurate information about fentanyl, its dangers, and potential risk reduction strategies. By educating both the general public and key stakeholders, FentanylSolution.org aims to empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions.

• Policy and Advocacy: FentanylSolution.org recognizes the need for policy changes and legislative action to effectively address the fentanyl crisis. By engaging with policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and other influential stakeholders, the organization aims to advocate for evidence-based policies that prioritize saving lives, public health and access to treatment.

 Call to Action: Mobilizing Change

The debut video concludes with a powerful call to action, encouraging viewers to join the fight against the fentanyl crisis. FentanylSolution.org invites individuals to engage with the organization’s initiatives, volunteer their time or expertise, and support their advocacy efforts. By mobilizing a global community committed to making a difference, FentanylSolution.org aims to create a future free from the devastating impact of fentanyl.

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As fentanyl poisonings continue to take a heavy toll on communities across the United States, the need for immediate and effective solutions has never been more urgent. Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is now the number one killer of adults aged 18-45. It’s crucial for individuals and organizations to take proactive measures to protect themselves and those around them.

That’s where Kloxxado comes in. As a leading provider of naloxone sprays, Kloxxado is committed to saving lives and reducing the devastating impact of fentanyl. By providing rapid, user-friendly access to this lifesaving medication, Kloxxado empowers individuals to act as first responders and make a meaningful difference in the face of an emergency.

To support this critical mission, FentanylSolution.org is proud to partner with Kloxxado as a sponsor of our corporate Save A Life Lunch & Learns. You provide the LUNCH and we provide the LEARN! These informative and engaging sessions provide attendees with valuable insights into the illicit fentanyl crisis, as well as the skills and knowledge needed to identify the signs of an overdose and administer naloxone safely and effectively.

Led by trainers in naloxone administration and the principles of harm reduction, our Lunch & Learns are the perfect way for businesses and organizations to empower their employees and take an active role in combating the fentanyl epidemic. In addition to providing expert guidance and hands-on experience with naloxone sprays, our trainers can also provide attendees with naloxone kits to take to their workplaces and homes to use in case of a fentanyl emergency.

Ultimately, the goal of our Lunch & Learns is to give people the tools and resources they need to respond quickly and effectively to a fentanyl emergency. By providing access to lifesaving naloxone and educating individuals on its proper use, we can help reduce the risk of fatalities and make a meaningful impact on this urgent public health crisis.

If you want to make a difference and take action against the fentanyl crisis, consider signing up for one of our corporate Save A Life Lunch & Learns today. With the support of Kloxxado and our team of experienced trainers, you can help save lives and make a real difference in your community.

Contact Christine Kirkwood at Christine@FentanylSolution.org to sign up.

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At the first Fountain Valley mayor’s breakfast of the year, held on March 30 at Fountain Valley Regional Hospital in Orange County, California, several local issues were discussed, including a recently established drug program in schools. The program, which was initiated last November, aims to prevent overdoses in youth by placing drug stations with naloxone, a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of opioids, in schools. The program comes in response to the growing number of children overdosing on fentanyl across the state and country.

Why is this program important?

The opioid crisis has become a major concern in many communities, and youth are particularly vulnerable to its effects. Illicit drugs laced with fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, are increasingly being sold to unsuspecting youth, often through social media platforms. This has led to a rise in overdoses among young people, including in schools. The drug program in Fountain Valley schools aims to address this issue and provide a timely response to overdoses, potentially saving lives.

What does the program involve?

The program involves placing naloxone stations in each elementary school, middle school, and high school in the Fountain Valley area. These stations are equipped with naloxone, a medication that can quickly reverse the effects of opioids and prevent overdose deaths. The naloxone is administered through a nasal spray, making it easy to use by school staff or other trained personnel in case of an emergency. The program was initiated by the Fountain Valley Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services teams, in collaboration with city officials.

Success of the program

Since its implementation, the program has already proven successful in saving a student’s life. In January, a student at Ocean High School who had taken an unknown substance bought off the street that was laced with fentanyl was administered naloxone by a teacher, according to Fountain Valley Fire Department Chief Bill McQuaid. The timely treatment with naloxone, also known as Narcan, saved her life, highlighting the importance of having naloxone stations in schools.

Why is this program necessary?

Lauren Lee, a former emergency room nurse who developed the plan for the school stations and currently serves as the Emergency Medical Services manager for the city fire department, emphasizes the importance of the program for student safety. She notes that a growing number of kids, including those in elementary school and older, are buying illicit drugs from dealers on social media sites, often through platforms like Snapchat. These drugs are sometimes misrepresented as harmless, such as marijuana gummies, when in fact they are laced with dangerous opioids like fentanyl. The presence of naloxone stations in schools can provide a crucial intervention in case of an overdose, potentially saving lives.

In conclusion, the drug program implemented in Fountain Valley schools to prevent overdoses in youth is a timely and important initiative. With the opioid crisis affecting communities across the country, it’s crucial to have measures in place to address the growing number of overdoses, including among young people. The presence of naloxone stations in schools can provide a lifeline in case of an overdose, potentially saving lives and protecting the well-being of students. As the program continues to be implemented and expanded, it is hoped that the need for naloxone stations in schools will decrease in the future, reflecting a reduction in overdoses and improved awareness about the dangers of opioids among youth. In the meantime, the program serves as a valuable resource to protect the health and safety of students in Fountain Valley schools. So far, the program has already demonstrated success in saving lives, and its continued implementation and expansion are critical in addressing the ongoing opioid crisis and protecting our youth.

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is estimated to be 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is a powerful and highly addictive drug that is responsible for a significant portion of the opioid epidemic that has swept across the United States and other countries. The drug is commonly used in medical settings as a strong pain reliever and anesthetic, but it is also frequently used recreationally or hidden, unbeknownst to the user, in illicit pills that teens can purchase from the internet. The dangers of overdosing on fentanyl are significant, and as a parent, it is important to be aware of the signs of use and what to look for.

Why Should I Be Concerned?

I know what you’re thinking, my child would never do this. And I can tell you that almost every parent who has buried their child from fentanyl poisoning, has said the same thing. Their child wasn’t a bad kid, they took a fake pill from a friend or found it online. Children as young as 11 have found these pills on the internet and have succumbed to them. 

Fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs including cocaine and methamphetamines to enhance their effects, but most teens think they are taking a Percocet™, Xanax™, Oxycodone™, an Adderall™ or similar pill. Many of these illicit fentanyl-laced pills are pressed in someone’s garage or basement and the fake pills are almost impossible to detect from the authentic pills. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) “has found that, of the fentanyl-laced fake…pills analyzed in 2022, six out of ten now contain a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl.” Children who find these pills on Snapchat, Instagram, and other social media are essentially being poisoned to death. The statistics have grown and the unfortunate familiar scenario of parents waking up to find their children deceased in their rooms has increased too.

“I know what you’re thinking, my child would never do this.”

According to the CDC, more than 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. The signs of fentanyl poisoning can be difficult to spot. 

However, some common symptoms to watch for include:

• Slow breathing or cessation of breathing
• Extreme drowsiness or unconsciousness
• Confusion or disorientation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constricted (very small) pupils
• Cold and clammy skin

To help prevent your child from using fentanyl or other opioids, it is important to have open and honest conversations about drug use and the dangers of fentanyl. Encourage your child to seek help if they are struggling with substance abuse or addiction, and make sure they are aware of the resources available to them, such as rehabilitation programs, support groups, and mental health services. Don’t wait. Get help right away.

Where To Get Lifesaving Narcan

The dangers of fentanyl are significant, and as a parent, it is important to be aware of the signs of use and what to look for. If you suspect that your child is using the drug, seek help immediately. By educating yourself and your child, you can help protect them from the dangers of this powerful and super addictive substance.

If you suspect that your child is using fentanyl, it is important to seek help immediately. In cases of overdose, the drug can cause a person to stop breathing, leading to death within minutes. Naloxone, a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, can be life-saving in these situations. Parents of teen children should keep Narcan (the brand name for Naloxone) in their first aid kit at home and learn how to use it. Schools are stocking up on Narcan and are keeping it in nurses’ offices.

Free Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, can be obtained from several sources. Here are a few places where people can find free Narcan:

1. Pharmacies: Many pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, offer free Narcan without a prescription. You can call your local pharmacy to see if they participate in this program.
2. Health Departments: Many local health departments, such as county health departments, provide free Narcan to those in need. You can contact your local health department for more information.
3. Community Organizations: Some community organizations, such as harm reduction organizations and substance abuse treatment centers, offer free Narcan to those at risk of opioid overdose.
4. Overdose Prevention Programs: Many cities and states have established overdose prevention programs that provide free Narcan to those at risk of opioid overdose.
5. Online Programs: Some online programs, such as the Naloxone Distribution Partnership, offer free Narcan kits through the mail.

It is important to note that laws and availability may vary by state, so it is best to check with local organizations for more information on where to obtain free Narcan. In the event of an overdose, every second counts, so having Narcan on hand can be a lifesaving tool.

Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, has emerged as a major public health threat in the United States. The drug is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and has been linked to a growing number of overdose deaths across the country. According to nationwide statistics from 2022, the number of fentanyl-related overdose deaths has continued to rise, posing a significant challenge to public health officials and law enforcement agencies. Fentanyl is currently the number one killer of 18-to-45-year-olds, more than car accidents and COVID-19 (CDC).

The Rise Of Fentanyl

The rise of fentanyl can be traced back to the opioid epidemic, which began in the early 2000s with the widespread prescription of opioid painkillers. Over time, many people who became addicted to prescription opioids turned to cheaper and more readily available street drugs, including heroin and fentanyl. Today, fentanyl is one of the most common drugs involved in opioid overdoses, and its use has become a major contributor to the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States.

Deaths Are Increasing

In 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that there were over 47,000 fentanyl-related overdose deaths in the United States, a significant increase from the previous year. This represents a staggering 67% of all opioid overdose deaths, making fentanyl the deadliest opioid in the country. The drug is particularly concerning because it is often mixed with other substances, such as cocaine and methamphetamine, increasing the risk of overdose.

The impact of fentanyl on communities across the United States has been significant. The drug is often sold on the black market and can be easily obtained, leading to widespread use and abuse. In addition, the potency of fentanyl makes it difficult to treat overdoses, and many people die within minutes of taking the drug.

What Is Being Done

In response to the growing threat of fentanyl, public health officials and law enforcement agencies have taken a number of steps to try and combat the drug’s spread. These measures include increased education and outreach efforts, improved access to addiction treatment and naloxone (a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose), and increased enforcement of laws and regulations aimed at preventing the illegal distribution of fentanyl.

Despite these efforts, the rise of fentanyl continues to pose a significant challenge to public health in the United States. To address this issue, it will be important to continue investing in education and outreach efforts, increasing access to addiction treatment, and taking steps to prevent the illegal distribution of the drug.

Fake Pills

In addition to the growing use of illicit fentanyl, another major concern is the increasing prevalence of counterfeit pills containing the drug. These fake pills are often made to look like other prescription medications, such as Xanax or OxyContin, and are sold on the black market to unsuspecting consumers.

These counterfeit pills are particularly dangerous because they often contain unpredictable and potentially deadly amounts of fentanyl. The potency of the drug means that even a small amount can be fatal, and many people who take these fake pills are unaware of the danger they are putting themselves in.

According to nationwide statistics from 2022, the number of overdose deaths related to counterfeit pills containing fentanyl has increased dramatically in recent years. In many cases, these deaths have occurred in people who thought they were taking a different medication and were not aware that they were consuming fentanyl.

The rise of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl highlights the importance of using only medication obtained from a reputable source. It also underscores the need for continued efforts to crack down on the illegal production and distribution of these fake pills, as well as increased public education and outreach efforts aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of counterfeit drugs.

The increasing prevalence of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl is a growing public health concern in the United States. These fake pills are putting unsuspecting people at risk of overdose and death, and it is essential that steps are taken to prevent their spread and increase public awareness of the dangers they pose. To address this issue, it will be important to take a comprehensive approach that includes education, improved access to addiction treatment, and increased enforcement of laws and regulations aimed at preventing the spread of the drug.

What Does An Overdose Look Like

A fentanyl overdose can have a range of symptoms, and the severity of the symptoms can depend on the amount of the drug taken, the person’s tolerance to the drug, and other factors such as their overall health. Some common signs of a fentanyl overdose include:

• Respiratory depression: One of the most dangerous effects of a fentanyl overdose is respiratory depression, which can lead to shallow breathing, slow breathing, or stopped breathing.
• Extreme drowsiness or unconsciousness: A person who has taken a large amount of fentanyl may become extremely drowsy or lose consciousness.
• Pale or blue skin: A fentanyl overdose can reduce the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream, which can cause the skin to appear pale or blue, particularly around the lips and fingernails.
• Pinpoint pupils: The pupils may become very small, a condition known as pinpoint pupils.
• Cold, clammy skin: The skin may feel cold and clammy to the touch, which can be a sign of decreased circulation.
• Slow or irregular pulse: The heartbeat may become slow or irregular, which can be a sign of cardiac problems.
• Nausea and vomiting: A person who has taken a large amount of fentanyl may experience nausea and vomiting.
• Seizures: Seizures can occur in severe cases of fentanyl overdose.

If you witness a friend who is using drugs and your friend overdoses, it is important to take immediate action to save their life. 

What Should I Do

1. Call for emergency medical assistance: Call 911 or your local emergency medical services immediately. An overdose can quickly become life-threatening, and it is essential to get medical treatment as soon as possible to avoid serious harm or death. Be prepared to provide the operator with the location of the overdose, the symptoms the person is experiencing, and any information about the drugs they have taken.
2. Administer naloxone: If you have naloxone (also known as Narcan), a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose, administer it as directed. Naloxone is available over the counter in some jurisdictions and can be easily administered through a nasal spray or injection.
3. Stay with the person: Stay with the person until emergency medical services arrive. Provide comfort and support, and try to keep them awake and alert. You are protected by the Good Samaritan laws and will not be prosecuted for helping someone. If you leave and your friend dies, you are at risk for prosecution.
4. Provide information: Provide emergency medical services with any information you have about the drugs the person has taken, including the type of drug, the amount taken, and the time it was taken. This information can help emergency medical services provide the best possible treatment.
5. Cooperate with emergency medical services: When emergency medical services arrive, cooperate with them to ensure the person receives the best possible care.

Will Good Samaritan Laws Protect Me

It is important to remember that Good Samaritan laws are in place to encourage individuals to assist in a medical emergency, including a drug overdose. In many jurisdictions, these laws provide immunity from prosecution for minor drug offenses, such as possession of a controlled substance, when someone calls for emergency services in response to a drug overdose.

“If you witness a fentanyl overdose, it is important to take action, provide assistance, and call for emergency medical assistance to save the life of the person in need, rather than running away from the scene.”

In some cases, if an individual runs away from the scene of an overdose and does not take any steps to provide assistance or call for help, they could face charges for the person’s death, such as manslaughter or criminal negligence.

Therefore, it is crucial to understand the specific provisions of Good Samaritan laws in your jurisdiction and to take appropriate steps to provide assistance in a medical emergency, such as a drug overdose. Running away from the scene of an overdose can increase the risk of the person dying, and it can also put you at risk of criminal prosecution. The goal of these laws is to encourage individuals to take action and provide assistance in a life-threatening situation, so it is important to not be afraid and to take appropriate steps to save the life of the person in need.

If you witness a fentanyl overdose, it is important to take action and provide assistance, or call for emergency medical assistance, to save the life of the person in need, rather than running away from the scene. Call for emergency medical assistance, administer naloxone if available, stay with the person, provide information, and cooperate with emergency medical services to ensure the best possible outcome. By taking these steps, you can help save the life of a friend and ensure they receive the care they need.