ALEA Launches Halloween Safety Initiative, Warns of Fentanyl Candy Look-Alike
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency launched a new Halloween safety initiative, warning parents of drugs that resemble candy that could make its way into candy buckets.
ALEA said in a release, "Our agency developed the 'Children’s Safety First, Halloween Fun Second' safety initiative, which comprises several important reminders and tips to ensure the safety of all your ghouls and goblins as they enjoy Halloween festivities across the state."
ALEA secretary Hal Taylor encourages parents and citizens to be aware of their surroundings, as well as inspect and verify candy children receive is safe before allowing them to consume it, but also warns of drugs, like fentanyl, that can resemble candy.
"In years past, there have been many warnings surrounding poisoned candy or candy with sharp objects inside," Taylor said in the release. "However, this year, there are growing concerns across the nation over a new and extremely dangerous substance that could be lurking inside your child’s Halloween bucket: fentanyl."
The release states fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration states two milligrams of fentanyl, which is equal to 10-15 grains of table salt, is considered a lethal dose.
According to the release, the DEA and its law enforcement partners have discovered brightly colored fentanyl and fentanyl pills, nicknamed “rainbow fentanyl” in 26 states since August 2022.
ALEA’s State Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Inabinett said, there is no evidence that suggests rainbow fentanyl will be given out during Halloween in Alabama but warns it is a concern that should be taken serious.
"The rise in fentanyl seizures is extremely concerning, and we want to bring awareness and educate the public in our state regarding this deadly drug.