Drug Awareness
Highlighter Vape Pens Add New Layer of Haze to School Prevention Efforts
(K-12 Dive) School safety experts are warning students, families, and educators against vape pens disguised as everyday school supplies after a device disguised as a highlighter went viral on social media.
“It seems that the concealability and accessibility are attracting teens to vaping,” said David Vincent, chief of police for Florida’s Citrus County School Board and a school safety specialist, in an email to K-12 Dive. “We have seen a dramatic shift from traditional substance use like cigarettes, smokeless tobacco and leaf marijuana to now everything being related to vape pens.”
While the highlighter pen is marketed by the company HighLight Vape as “intended for sale to adults 21 years or older,” its wide range of neon colors and dual ability to function as a marker make it easy to conceal in a backpack, locker or pencil pouch.
One Pill Can Kill: Lansing Community Learns About the Dangers of Fentanyl (VIDEO)
The Lansing District Auditorium hosted a community presentation on March 1, 2023, called "One Pill Can Kill," which aimed to inform the community about the dangers of Fentanyl. The presentation was organized to educate the community on the risks of Fentanyl use and provide strategies for preventing overdoses.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times more potent than morphine and has become a growing concern for law enforcement and public health officials. Fentanyl is often used illicitly, with individuals purchasing the drug on the street or online. Unfortunately, this has led to increased overdose deaths due to Fentanyl use.
The One Pill Can Kill presentation featured a panel of experts, including a KCK Police Captain and DEA Task Force officer, firefighter/paramedic, and family members who have lost loved ones due to Fentanyl use. They shared their experiences and knowledge of the drug, including how it is used, its effects on the body, and how to recognize an overdose.
During the presentation, the presenters emphasized that Fentanyl is highly addictive and dangerous; even a tiny amount can lead to overdose and death. They also discussed how Fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, increasing the risk of overdose.
The One Pill Can Kill presentation was open to parents, students, staff, and community members, and it is crucial to watch and share the presentation to increase awareness and take proactive steps to keep our community safe.