Fort Greene Park warns that ground-level containers may contain fentanyl.
Visitors to Fort Greene Park have been issued a warning by park officials to be cautious of small plastic canisters that could potentially contain dangerous traces of fentanyl. These canisters may be found on the fields or playgrounds of the park, and it is important for visitors to exercise vigilance and take necessary precautions to avoid any potential harm.
According to an email alert from the Fort Greene Park Conservancy on Monday, the trash can containers are small and colorful, resembling the size of a coin. This could be potentially dangerous as young children and dogs may mistake them for treats or toys.
According to an email sent out to all park users, it has come to our attention that there have been several reports of possible fentanyl “trash cans” scattered throughout the park. These cans have been found in various locations, such as the playgrounds, central lawn, and Willoughby entrance ramp. We want to make sure that everyone who enjoys the park is aware of this potential danger.
The contents of the miniature cans that were discovered at the park are still a mystery as it has not been confirmed if they contained fentanyl. According to David Barker, the director of the Parks Department in Fort Greene Park, the items found in the vicinity were deemed as “potential” drug paraphernalia and have not undergone testing to confirm the presence of any drug residue.
According to Chris Clark, spokesperson for the Parks Department, the well-being of both visitors and employees is of utmost importance. Hence, regular maintenance is carried out across all properties in the five boroughs. Although there is no proof that fentanyl is present in these containers, the situation will still be closely monitored.
According to the Health Department of the city, Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid often mixed with other drugs and is considerably more potent than heroin, with a potency that ranges from 30 to 50 times greater.
In a recent and tragic incident, a daycare in the Bronx became the site of a fentanyl exposure that resulted in the death of a 1-year-old boy and the hospitalization of several other children. It was discovered that a kilogram of fentanyl and drug processing equipment were found in close proximity to the children’s play mats and even hidden under the floorboards. The severity and danger of fentanyl exposure to innocent children in such a vulnerable setting is deeply alarming.
Earlier this year, NPR was informed by medical experts that fentanyl is not easily absorbed through the skin. It is consumed by most individuals through injection or smoking, leading to its harmful effects. This contradicts the notion that police officers regularly report being exposed to fentanyl by simply touching or coming into contact with the drug.
Several schools in the Fort Greene area have also been vigilant in detecting drug containers. They have taken measures to notify parents of the potential risks associated with these containers.
In an email sent to parents on Monday, Community Roots Charter School in Fort Greene emphasized the importance of cautioning children against picking up trash cans that are often brightly colored and may seem like a toy or trinket to them. The email urged parents to warn their kids about the dangers of touching the cans, which could potentially make them sick.
The park was bustling with families and caregivers on Monday afternoon. Babies and toddlers were happily playing, but their guardians expressed concern about the possibility of drug litter in the area. They feared that it could pose a danger to the little ones.
As she watched over three little ones playing on a blanket in the playground, Rachael Francique, a nanny, shared her thoughts on the matter, stating that while it can be daunting to think about the possibility of dangerous items being left around, she hasn’t personally come across any such items within this particular park.
In her statement, she emphasized the innocence of children and their lack of awareness about the things they put in their mouth. “They’re so innocent,” she said. “They don’t know. They will definitely put stuff in their mouth,” she added, highlighting the need for extra caution and supervision when it comes to children’s safety.
According to Armando Fuentes, who was enjoying a walk with his furry companion Ruby Roo in the park, the canisters resemble typical drug paraphernalia, but are much more alarming.
Fuentes expressed that he might have confused those containers for weed containers in the past, but he assured that he would keep an eye out for them from now on.
The Parks Department has provided a comment, and this update has been included in the story.
Also Read:
- Drug Bust in Island Park: Three Arrested in Major Narcotics Sting, Cocaine, Heroin, and Fentanyl Seized
- Federal authorities report man transported over 30 pounds of fentanyl on New York City subway system
- Man transported over 30 pounds of fentanyl on the NYC subway, according to federal authorities.
- Arrest made in connection to fentanyl-related death of toddler at Bronx day care center