White House Releases Fentanyl Recommendations for First Responders

​​ 

​The White House has just released Fentanyl Safety Recommendations for First Responders. 

Fentanyl is an opioid pain medication with rapid onset and short duration that is many times more potent than morphine. Its potency makes it extremely dangerous when not handled properly. ​​​​

According to the White House, "​The increased prevalence of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids in the illicit drug market means that first responders need to understand how to protect themselves from exposure in the field.  Law enforcement, fire, rescue, and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel must balance safety with mobility and efficiency when responding to scenes where the presence of fentanyl is suspected."

The document, which are the result of a Federal Interagency Working Group with 10 agencies and 24 stakeholder organizations, provide unified, scientific, and evidence-based recommendations so that first responders can protect themselves during their daily activities, including responding to overdose calls.

They do not address all possible scenarios, but cover three specific categories, including what first responders can do to protect themselves form exposure, after exposure occurs, and actions to take when they or their partners exhibit signs of intoxication. 

Learn more and download two different sizes of the recommendations at the White House website​.