To mark the beginning of Red Ribbon Week 2024, Attorney General Ashley Moody has called on parents to discuss the dangers of substance abuse with their children. Red Ribbon Week is recognized as the largest drug-abuse prevention campaign in the United States, with over 80 million Americans participating annually by wearing a red ribbon. Despite these efforts, more than 100,000 individuals die each year from drug overdoses, largely due to illicit fentanyl trafficked across the U.S.-Mexico border. Studies indicate that children under 14 represent the fastest-growing age group affected by fentanyl poisoning.
Attorney General Moody emphasized, "We are in the grips of a national opioid crisis, with more than 100,000 Americans dying from drug overdoses every year, mainly due to illicit fentanyl from Mexico. But it isn’t just a problem for adults—the fastest growing age group dying of fentanyl poisoning is children younger than 14. During Red Ribbon Week, I’m urging parents to talk to their kids about the dangers of drug use and remind them that one pill can kill."
Recently, Attorney General Moody acknowledged Florida heroes who saved a seven-month-old baby suffering from a fentanyl overdose. First responders successfully administered naloxone—an opioid overdose reversal medication—provided through Moody's Helping Heroes program.
In support of parental guidance on this issue, Attorney General Moody has released several resources:
- Fast Facts on Fentanyl Toolkit: This toolkit aims to protect children from digital drug dealers by informing parents about fentanyl's dangers.
- Dose of Reality Florida: An online resource offering information on opioid misuse and addiction along with safe storage practices for prescription painkillers.
- Treatment Atlas: A confidential tool providing details about nearly 500 treatment facilities across Florida for those seeking specialized addiction treatment.
Red Ribbon Week began in 1988 following Drug Enforcement Administration Agent Enrique Camarena's death and continues as an annual event promoting healthy and drug-free lifestyles.