Fentanyl Awareness & Family Resources
One Pill Can Kill: Knowledge Saves Lives
At Deer Creek-Lamont Public Schools, the safety and well-being of our students is a priority.
As part of our prevention education efforts, students in grades 6–12 will receive age-appropriate instruction about fentanyl, counterfeit prescription pills, substance-use prevention, and making safe decisions.
We encourage parents and caregivers to explore the resources below and have ongoing conversations with their children.
Understanding Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid used legally in medical settings but also manufactured and distributed illegally.
Illegally manufactured fentanyl may be found in counterfeit prescription pills and other illegal drugs. These substances may look like legitimate medications, making them particularly dangerous.
Learn more: DEA Fentanyl Information
Counterfeit Prescription Pills
Counterfeit pills may resemble medications such as oxycodone, Xanax, or Adderall. It is not possible to determine whether a pill contains fentanyl by appearance alone.
Remind children that they should take medication only as a licensed professional directs.
Paonlyources: DEA Parents and Caregivers
Social Media and Online Drug Activity
Drug traffickers sometimes use social media apps, private messages, and emojis to advertise illegal drugs.
Parents are encouraged to maintain open communication about online activity and help children recognize unsafe interactions.
DEA Hidden on Your Kid's Phone
Talking With Your Child
Conversations about drugs should be honest, age-appropriate, and ongoing.
Ask what your child knows about fentanyl, discuss how to respond to peer pressure, and make sure your child knows they can come to you for help without fear of being judged.
DEA Parent and Caregiver Resources
Recognizing and Responding to an Overdose
An opioid overdose is a medical emergency.
Warning signs may include slow or absent breathing, unusual gurgling sounds, blue or gray lips, or an inability to wake the person.
Call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose. Give naloxone if available, follow the emergency dispatcher's instructions, and remain with the person until help arrives.
SAFE Project: What to Do if You Witness an Overdose
Where to Find Help
Emergency medical assistance: Call 911.
SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Free, confidential information and treatment referrals, available 24 hours a day.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate emotional or mental health crisis support.
Students and families may also contact the DCLA school counselor for assistance identifying appropriate school and community resources.
Our Commitment
Fentanyl prevention education is not intended to frighten or shame students or families. Our goal is to provide accurate information, promote safe decisions, encourage communication, and ensure families know where to turn for help.
Together, we can help protect our Eagles. 🦅