In Denton, Texas, the opioid epidemic is not just a nationwide statistic; it’s happening right here in our very own community. One lost life is one too many, and that’s why Denton’s police and firefighter-paramedics are trained, equipped, and prepared with the appropriate resources to administer Narcan to those experiencing an overdose.

Over the past two years, the Denton Fire Department has administered Narcan approximately 240 times. In Denton County, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported that opioids accounted for 54 deaths in 2022 – a 28% increase from 2020.  That’s why the city has expanded the resources it offers to those suffering an overdose and battling addiction – employing a multifaceted approach that emphasizes identification, immediate response, and ongoing support.

When it comes to a potential overdose, timing is everything. Narcan has the greatest chance of preventing a fatal overdose when administered properly and in a timely manner. That’s why it’s imperative to 1.) quickly recognize the signs of someone experiencing an overdose, and 2.) have effective and honest communication with the responding officer or firefighter-paramedic.

Withholding information about a potential overdose could impede the ability of a first responder to swiftly administer Narcan – and that wasted time could be the difference between life or death.

The most common signs of an overdose are:

• Blue lips/nails 
• Confused or dizzy 
• Won’t wake up 
• Choking/snoring  
• Slow/no breathing  
• Can’t stay awake  

A lesser-known but critical fact is that medications obtained illegally or without a prescription have the potential to be laced with fentanyl (think Adderall, Xanax, or Percocet). This is why it’s so important to be vigilant and recognize the signs of an overdose and purchase medications through a licensed medical provider.  

If you see or are with someone who may be experiencing these overdose symptoms, you should:   

• Call 911 immediately.  
• Administer Naloxone (Narcan)  
• Try to keep the person awake and breathing.  
• Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.  
• Stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives. 

Recently, Denton has expanded public access to Narcan by placing overdose prevention kits in AED boxes at every city facility. However, it’s very important to note that even if you self-administer Narcan, or someone else administers it for you, you still need to call 911. Narcan often wears off quicker than the overdose-causing drug, which means additional doses may be necessary.

In addition, Denton Fire Department partners with the Resource Recovery Council to combat repeat drug overdoses in our community. A councilor, along with a paramedic, make monthly contact with past overdose patients in hopes of proactively preventing recurrences.

The battle against the opioid epidemic in Denton, Texas, is a testament to the power of community, preparedness, and compassion. Through the tireless efforts of the city’s first responders, and the implementation of strategic resources and support systems, Denton is making significant strides in saving lives and combating addiction. The expanded access to Narcan and the partnership with the Recovery Resource Council reflect a deep commitment to not just responding to emergencies, but proactively preventing them. As Denton continues to face this crisis head-on, we’re working towards a future where the impact of opioids is diminished, and the value of every life is recognized and preserved.