The Texas Department of Public Safety is using October to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and encourage communities to learn how to prevent and respond to opioid poisoning.
Through its One Pill Kills campaign, DPS is sharing educational information throughout the month for Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month. The statewide initiative focuses on the potentially deadly risks associated with fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that can be found in illicit drugs and counterfeit prescription pills.
One Pill Kills Campaign Promotes Fentanyl Awareness
Texas launched the One Pill Kills campaign in 2022 to help residents understand the dangers of fentanyl and recognize the warning signs of a poisoning.
Throughout October, DPS is releasing a series of social media videos covering fentanyl-related risks. The department is also directing Texans toward educational resources that explain how people can protect themselves, recognize a potential poisoning, and respond during an emergency.
The campaign emphasizes that fentanyl exposure can happen unexpectedly, particularly when the substance is mixed into other illegal drugs or pressed into counterfeit pills.
Fentanyl Can Be Extremely Potent
According to DPS, fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that can be 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Because of its strength, even a small amount can potentially cause a fatal overdose.
Officials also warn that fentanyl may be mixed with substances such as heroin and cocaine. Counterfeit prescription pills can also contain fentanyl without the person taking the pill knowing it is present.
As a result, DPS continues to encourage Texans to understand the risks associated with illicit drugs and counterfeit medications.
Free Educational Presentations Available
In addition to its online awareness efforts, DPS is offering educational programs through its Safety Education team.
Schools, churches, community organizations, and other groups can request free One Pill Kills presentations. The DPS Safety Education team tailors programs for different audiences and age groups, helping educators address fentanyl awareness effectively.
These presentations provide an opportunity for families, students, and community members to discuss fentanyl openly and learn about steps that can help prevent opioid-related deaths.
Community Education Plays a Key Role
DPS encourages Texans to have conversations about fentanyl with family members and friends. These discussions can help people recognize the risks before an emergency occurs.
The department also highlights the importance of opioid poisoning reversal medication. Having access to medication that can reverse an opioid poisoning can provide a critical response during a suspected overdose.
However, DPS stresses that prevention and education remain important components of addressing the broader fentanyl threat.
DPS Reports More Than 966 Million Doses Seized
The fentanyl awareness campaign comes as Texas continues its broader efforts to intercept illicit drugs entering communities.
Since the launch of Operation Lone Star in 2021, DPS reports that its efforts have resulted in the seizure of more than 966 million potentially lethal doses of fentanyl.
The figure reflects the scale of the fentanyl threat that law enforcement officials say they are encountering. The campaign provides Texans with information to identify fentanyl risks and respond to poisoning emergencies.
October Recognized as Fentanyl Awareness Month
Texas formally established October as Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month through House Bill 3144, which lawmakers approved and Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law in 2024.
The designation aims to increase public understanding of fentanyl and highlight the importance of opioid poisoning reversal medication. State officials encourage residents to use educational resources and discuss fentanyl safety with others.
Texans Encouraged to Learn the Warning Signs
Families, schools, churches, and communities can help share accurate information about fentanyl risks and accidental exposure. DPS urges Texans to learn about fentanyl risks, counterfeit pills, illicit drugs, and One Pill Kills resources. As October continues, the awareness campaign highlights education and preparedness as key tools for preventing fentanyl-related deaths.