The Marrieta (Ga.) Police Department on Monday warned the general public about the dangers of synthetic opioids in public spaces.
The nation's recent surge in overdoses — caused by the synthetic opioids fentanyl and carfentanil — spurred the alert. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Carfentanil, initially manufactured as an elephant tranquilizer, is 100 times more potent than fentanyl. The narcotics are so potent, individuals can experience an overdose by simply touching residual amounts of the substances.
The department advises individuals to avoid touching any residue they encounter and call 911 immediately.
"For the purposes of both public health and public safety, citizens everywhere should beware that fentanyl or carfentanil may be present in public places, and it is necessary to take precautions," said the police department. "When in public places, or private places previously occupied by strangers, the public should be alert to the possibility of the presence of fentanyl residue."
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