Doing our Part to Combat the Opioid Crisis
Menomonee Falls Public Library is pleased to announce the installation of three O.A.K. (Overdose Aid Kit) boxes inside the Library building. Each box contains NARCAN®, fentanyl testing strips, CPR breathing masks, and other resources. The supplies are free for anyone to take whenever your Library is open. Waukesha County Department of Health & Human Services donated the boxes and supplies, and will regularly replenish the boxes at no cost to your Library.
NARCAN®, a nasal spray form of Naloxone, is a medication used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It is safe for all, including children, pregnant women, and pets. NARCAN® has no effect on someone who has not taken opioids, as well as no potential for abuse. It has minimal to no side effects and wears off in 30 – 90 minutes.
The O.A.K. boxes are located in the Library’s vestibule, first floor community room hallway, and second floor snack room. Please take whatever supplies you need, no questions asked.
Improving the Health of our Community
Over the last year, synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, were identified in 87% of opioid overdose deaths in Waukesha County as well as 73% of all drug overdose deaths in Wisconsin. The sharp increase in overdose deaths is not only impacting those who use opioids. Cocaine deaths involving synthetic opioids increased by 134% from 2019 (182) to 2021 (426), and it is estimated that as many as 40% of counterfeit pills contain enough fentanyl to be lethal. In 2022, County Executive Paul Farrow declared a fentanyl community health crisis in Waukesha County.
“The Library is proud to work with Waukesha County Department of Health & Human Services on this important public health initiative,” said Library Director Jacqueline Rammer. “Now more than ever, our community members need access to Narcan and fentanyl testing strips to combat the fentanyl and opioid crisis. Access to these potentially life-saving products is just another resource that MFPL is able to offer in an effort to improve the health of our Village.” Your Library recently hosted a Naloxone administration training class through the County and plans to host more soon. Visit the Library’s calendar for upcoming programs and events.
The Library also offers additional public health initiatives including lending blood pressure monitors to patrons through an innovative partnership with the American Heart Association and Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Waukesha County HHS is always looking for organizations such as to host an O.A.K. box in their facility. Businesses, nonprofits, and schools can contact the Health and Human Services Department for more information.