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‘It’s incredibly serious’: How one nonprofit is fighting the fentanyl crisis in Central Florida

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Six Orlando police officers are recovering from possibly being exposed to fentanyl Wednesday.

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Nonprofits fighting back against the drug in Central Florida don’t want anyone to make light of how dangerous the drug is.

“A minimal amount of exposure could cause overdose and even death,” said Project Opioid board member Timothy McKinney. “It’s incredibly serious.”

READ: Orlando police officers released from hospital after possible fentanyl exposure

Project Opioid is a nonprofit that is doing work in Central Florida to raise awareness and educate.

“We’re making billboards available throughout Central Florida, reaching the general public, educating them on the fact that one pill can kill you,” McKinney said.

READ: Winter Park police chief resigns week after domestic violence arrest

Project Opioid is pushing forward legislation that would do things like put Narcan into more hands, and fighting Big Pharma.

“When we receive some of the funding from the drug companies that are settling on the opioid abuse taking place in our country, we use those funds very strategically so we can do the most good,” McKinney said.

READ: Supporters fear changes diluting safety measures proposed in Miya’s Law

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Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.

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