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ST. GEORGE — As massive fentanyl seizures become more frequent along Interstate 15 in Southern Utah, authorities are taking special care when encountering and handling these potentially deadly narcotics.
Fentanyl places law enforcement and other first responders at risk of accidental exposure to the substance, which can occur by inhaling it through the nose or mouth, or it can also be absorbed through the skin or eyes.
Moreover, even a small amount of the drug can cause significant health-related complications, including respiratory depression or death, the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training says.
What makes the drug so deadly is its potency, considering it can take only 2 milligrams of fentanyl to cause death. For example, a sweetener packet at a restaurant table contains 1,000 milligrams.
