The McCall Behavioral Health Network has launched a fentanyl awareness campaign to coincide with Fentanyl Awareness Day and International Overdose Awareness Day, both observed at the end of August. The initiative aims to provide accurate information to Connecticut residents, first responders, and the healthcare community about the dangers of fentanyl and how to respond safely.

“Behind every overdose statistic is someone’s child, someone’s parent, someone who is deeply loved,” said McCall’s President and CEO, Maria Coutant Skinner, LCSW. “Fear fueled by myths about fentanyl has too often kept people from stepping in to help. This campaign is about giving our community the courage to act—because knowledge and compassion can save lives.”

The campaign was developed in partnership with McCall’s Community and Law Enforcement for Addiction Recovery (CLEAR) initiative. A central component is a video dispelling common myths about fentanyl exposure, reassuring responders and community members that they can help without unnecessary fear.

McCall’s leadership emphasizes that fentanyl cannot cause overdose through touch or casual contact and that lives can be saved with Narcan. Free Narcan kits are available through McCall by calling 860.294.4044.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe enough to help when it matters most,” said Lauren Pristo, MPH, Director of Community Engagement. “By clearing away the myths about fentanyl, we hope to give our community the peace of mind and confidence to step forward and respond to an overdose without fear.”

Nearly 1,000 Connecticut residents died of overdoses in 2024, with 80% involving fentanyl. McCall will host a Memorial Vigil and Resource Fair on Aug. 27 at Coe Memorial Park in Torrington from 5 to 8 p.m.