International Overdose Awareness Day
Overdoses can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Learn how to keep your family safe, spot an overdose, and take action in an emergency. What you know could save a life.
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Spot the signs of an overdose Signs of an overdose include loss of consciousness, being unable to talk, slow or shallow breathing, choking sounds, vomiting, and irregular heartbeat. Learn to spot the signs >> |
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Always carry naloxone Naloxone, also called “Narcan,” will reverse an opioid overdose. Carry multiple doses with you and be prepared to use them in an emergency. See how to use it >> |
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Find fentanyl testing strips Fentanyl testing strips can detect if fentanyl is mixed into heroin, meth, cocaine, and fake pills that look real. Learn how to use them and where to get them >> |
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Educate yourself and others Learn about fentanyl and what to do in a crisis, and tell friends and loved ones about your opioid safety plan. Having open, honest conversations about opioids dispels myths and keeps us safe. |
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Tranq can be resistant to naloxone Tranq, also called Xylazine, is a veterinary anesthetic that is mixed with fentanyl. Tranq does not always respond to naloxone, which is why it's important to call 911 when someone overdoses. Learn more about tranq >> |
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You have the power to save a life Remember – addiction is a complex medical condition, not a moral failing. By creating a plan and openly talking about addiction with your loved ones, you’re making the world a safer place. |
Keep an Overdose Safety card in your wallet
Our free, printable cards are easy to use. Just print, fold in half, and stick in your wallet so you're always prepared in an emergency. You'll get four cards you can share with friends and family to keep them safe.
See how overdose affects real people
Justin's Story
Justin Cappiello was 25 years old when he was taken from us by an overdose of heroin, which was laced with fentanyl. He was the oldest of 3 children, loved his brother and sister and watched over them always! Justin was so full of life, love and laughter.
Betsy's Story
A well-told story is remembered more accurately, and far longer than learning derived from facts and figures. Unfortunately, I only have a handful of memories from the months I was completely lost on Fentanyl patches.
Cade's Story
I lost my beautiful son, Cade Reddington, at the age of 18. Cade died in his freshman dorm room at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee after taking what he thought was Percocet, but it turned out to be one fake pill that was 100% fentanyl.
James's Story
Fentanyl: it’s what starts my story, but it is also what stopped my brother’s life. James wasn’t just a sibling–he was my best friend. We grew up incredibly close, creating the most amazing memories that I now cherish so deeply.
