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Important Information RE: Fentanyl

Dear Bainbridge Island School District Community, 

We want to alert you about new forms of fentanyl circulating in the Pacific Northwest and encourage you to have frank and honest conversations with your loved ones. It is especially concerning that the new forms are targeted toward children and young adults. The drugs have been dubbed “rainbow fentanyl” due to their bright colors and come in various forms such as pills, powders and blocks. In addition to the rainbow versions, fentanyl also comes disguised as fake prescription medications to look like Oxycontin, Vicodin, Xanax, etc.  

According to the most current data provided by Kitsap Public Health District, opioid deaths are on the rise in Kitsap. In 2021, 63% of opioid deaths in Kitsap were caused by fentanyl.
KPDH shared the following steps to prevent overdoses:

  • Assume any pill or powder not obtained from a pharmacy could contain fentanyl

  • Dispose of unwanted or expired medications using a medication return service

  • Know the signs of an opioid overdose, including the inability to wake up; slow or no breathing; and blue, gray, or ashy skin, lips or fingernails

  • If someone might be overdosing, assist them by:

    • Calling 911

    • Administering Naloxone (Narcan), which helps reduce or reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. NOTE: More than one dose may be needed

    • Performing rescue breaths

    • Staying with the victim until helps arrives

It is important to note that under the Washington State Good Samaritan Law, calls for help for an overdose will not result in charges for the use or possession of a controlled substance for the victim or the person seeking assistance. In addition, if you encounter what you believe may be fentanyl or any illegal substance, do not handle it and call 911. 

First responders from the Bainbridge Island Police Department and the Bainbridge Island Fire Department are equipped to administer Naloxone, as are the health rooms at Bainbridge High School and Commodore Options (Eagle Harbor High School). We are also in the process of obtaining doses for the rest of our schools. In a statewide push to prevent opioid overdoses, the Washington Department of Health has made Naloxone available without a prescription to individuals and can be ordered for free. Click here to learn more. 

Thank you for addressing the dangers of drug use with your loved ones. Listed below are some resources to help facilitate your conversations. A proactive and honest approach helps to keep our students and community safe. 

Sincerely, 

Peter Bang-Knudsen                      
Superintendent
Bainbridge Island School District 

Joseph Clark Jr.
Chief of Police
Bainbridge Island Police Department                   

Hank Teran
Fire Chief
Bainbridge Island Fire Department 

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