The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith is ramping up its fight against the opioid crisis with educational andtraining programs aimed at preventing overdose deaths.  

In recent years, an increase in opioid-related overdoses, especially if fentanyl is involved, has filled newsfeeds. A two-milligram dose, similar to five to seven grains of salt, of fentanyl, an opioid like morphine or heroin, can lead to death in an average-size adult.

University Police Chief Ray Ottman is making efforts to get the word out on how easily it is to overdose and what to do if someone does.  

Ottman, UPD officers, and UAFS are all committed to minimizing the risk. UPD has been conducting trainings for UAFS employees and meeting with students. Ottman said the best thing to do is to educate people on what to look for in case of a possible overdose and how to safely help.  

“In those opportunities of meetings, discussions, and trainings, we’re passing along (information) like, ‘If you notice this, here’s what to do,’” Ottman said.  

In the event of an exposure or overdose, UAFS has two vending machines across campus (the lobbies of the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center and Math Science Building) that have Narcan, the opioid overdose reversal medication, for free. Additionally, every building on campus is equipped with an opioid rescue kit, which may include an AED (automated external defibrillator), and is located near the building’s entrance or elevator. 

The trainings are also crucial for sharing helpful resources, such as the NARCANsas or ReviveAR apps that provide information and instructions in English, Spanish, or Marshallese. Ottman said that discussing the problem often helps reduce barriers to helping yourself or others. 

“When someone is empowered and supported, they may get help for a loved one, a friend, or somebody that they know,” he said. “You might get somebody that’s in a really bad spot to where they’re getting help, and that help is step one. If you can continue down that road of support and get them in a good place, that might be one more life that you helped save.” 

The efforts of UAFS align with Arkansas’s One Pill Can Kill initiative, a college-focused awareness program about the dangers of fentanyl, which launched in October 2024. The Arkansas Attorney General’s office will host a One Pill Can Kill event at UAFS in the fall. 

During Ottman’s training sessions, he relays how easy it can be to mistake an authentic and counterfeit pill, potentially laced with fentanyl or another illegal drug. To avoid this, never share prescription medications and only use medications as medically prescribed, he said. 

In the event of a possible overdose or exposure, call for emergency services, describe what is witnessed, and stay on the scene until help arrives, Ottman said. On the UAFS campus, calling 9-1-1 will alert both UPD and the Fort Smith Police Department. UPD can be called directly at (479) 788-7140 to ensure a quicker response time. Calls will be relayed to fire and EMS.