Combatting the Fentanyl Problem Through Awareness & Community Resources

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Fairfax, VA – The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) and the Fairfax County Opioid and Substance Use Task Force have been working diligently to combat the problem of fentanyl in Fairfax County. In recent years, fentanyl, a potent, synthetic opioid, has been found in drugs marketed to youth and adults and has become a concerning issue. FCPD works collaboratively with the Fairfax County Opioid and Substance Use Task Force to bring awareness to the fentanyl issue and deter drug use in our communities. To effectively safeguard our families and protect our children, it is essential for every community member to learn about fentanyl and share vital safety information with their loved ones about this potent drug.

What is Fentanyl?

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reports that as little as 2mg of fentanyl, the amount seen on the tip of this pencil, can amount to a deadly dose.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine. Initially developed for medical use in severe pain management, this drug is now produced by drug cartels clandestinely and mixed into other drugs, counterfeit prescription pills, and powders, often unknowingly to the user. This combination poses an extreme risk to those who unknowingly consume it, leading to life-threatening consequences.

Youth Drug Usage Trends:

Fairfax County has witnessed trends in drug usage over the past few years, particularly with drugs containing fentanyl. Some of the most common types of Fentanyl that FCPD has encountered has come in the form of small blue pills, “perk 30s” or “M30” pills. Other common types of drugs marketed to youth that may contain fentanyl include counterfeit prescription pills such as Xanax, Percocet, or Adderall, as well as powders marketed as heroin or cocaine. It is important to note that these substances can vary greatly in appearance and packaging, and it is almost impossible to know whether an illicit drug has a deadly dose of fentanyl or not. 

For the past several years, over 90% of all drug overdoses in the Fairfax Health District have involved fentanyl.  There has also been a concerning increase in youth drug overdoses. More information on local opioid overdose trends is available on the Fairfax Opioid Overdose Dashboard.

Preventing Youth Drug Usage:

FCPD works with Fairfax County partners to equip our community members with the tools and knowledge to prevent youth drug usage and keep our families safe.

Here are some tips to help protect your loved ones:

  1. Open Communication: Establish open and honest lines of communication with your children. Encourage them to share their experiences, concerns, and any encounters with drugs. Maintain a non-judgmental approach, as this will foster trust and make them more likely to seek guidance when needed.

  2. Education and Awareness: Educate yourself and your children about the dangers of drugs, including fentanyl. Stay informed about current drug trends and the risks associated with specific substances. Attend community workshops, seminars, and informational sessions hosted by law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, or community organizations.
  • Know the Signs: Be aware of the signs of drug use, such as sudden changes in behavior, declining academic performance, changes in friend groups, or unexplained financial difficulties. If you suspect drug involvement, seek professional help immediately.

  • Secure Medications: Safeguard prescription medications at home, keeping them locked away and out of reach of children and teenagers. Dispose of expired or unused medications properly through safe at-home disposal methods or designated drop-off locations in your community.

  • Supportive Environment: Foster a healthy and supportive environment within your family and community. Encourage participation in extracurricular activities, hobbies, and sports, providing positive outlets for expression and personal growth.

  • Community Collaboration: Engage with community organizations, schools, and local law enforcement agencies to collectively address the issue of youth drug usage. Participate in neighborhood watch programs, community events, and initiatives that promote drug prevention, like the Fairfax Prevention Coalition. Share messages from the County’s Opioid Communications Toolkit with your neighbors, family and friends.
  • Sign up for a virtual training on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose and administer naloxone nasal spray to reverse an opioid overdose. After completing the training, individuals 18 and older will receive Narcan, fentanyl test strips and treatment information.

Resources:
If you or someone you know is experiencing substance use issues, there are numerous county resources available:

  • If the situation is immediately life-threatening, call 911. Fairfax County Fire and Rescue personnel carry medication that can prevent deaths from opioid overdose.
  • Call the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) Entry & Referral line at 703-383-8500, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., to access behavioral health services, including substance use treatment services for youth and adults. 
  • If it’s after business hours, call CSB Emergency Services at 703-573-5679 or the Fairfax Detoxification Center at 703-502-7000; both are available 24/7. 
  • CSB Peer Outreach Response Team (PORT) provides outreach, engagement, and resource navigation to individuals who have serious opioid and other substance use challenges. If you or someone you know could benefit from PORT services, call 703-559-3199.

Together we can safeguard our families, protect our children, and ensure a brighter future for Fairfax County.

For ongoing updates, please read our blog and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.