Richmond, VA – As Halloween festivities ramp up across Virginia, state police are reminding residents to celebrate safely and remain alert to the ongoing risks of fentanyl exposure.
According to the Virginia State Police, the final week of Operation Free 4.0—a statewide education and enforcement initiative—is underway. The campaign focuses on reducing overdose deaths through prevention, awareness, and community outreach.
Police urge Virginians to only use medications prescribed to them, look out for friends, and carry naloxone, a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. “Together, we’ll continue the fight against fentanyl,” the agency said in a statement shared on social media Monday morning.
Authorities emphasized that with Halloween parties and community events taking place this week, situational awareness is critical. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin, has been linked to a surge in overdose deaths nationwide, often through counterfeit pills that appear legitimate.
The campaign—tagged with hashtags such as #ItOnlyTakesOne and #OnePillCanKill—encourages Virginians to share safety information, support friends who may be struggling, and report suspicious activity.
As the final week of Operation Free 4.0 continues, officials hope to close out October with zero overdoses and renewed community engagement. “Let’s finish strong,” the department said.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
