This week, we shined a light on the dangers of opioid misuse and the power of naloxone to save lives. On Florida’s first Revive Awareness Day, we warned Floridians to never use illicit drugs and highlighted our Helping Heroes program.

Over the past several years, more than 100,000 Americans died annually from drug overdoses—more than 7,000 Floridians alone died in 2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A Drug Enforcement Administration study claims that now 7 out of 10 counterfeit prescription pills seized containing fentanyl had a lethal dose. 

Last year, we created the Helping Heroes program to provide free, life-saving naloxone to Florida first responders at participating Walmart locations throughout the state. Since the launch, more than 100 organizations have signed up and have access to the free overdose-reversal drug at more than 100 Walmart stores in Florida.

While it is important that our first responders have access to this critical tool, we must continue to urge Floridians to never use illicit drugs. Just one pill can kill.

If you are struggling with addiction, know there is help available. You can find treatment options at TreatmentAtlas.org.

By providing access to life-saving naloxone to first responders and warning Floridians about the dangers of opioid misuse, we can continue building a Stronger, Safer Florida.