Substance Use Disorder Prevention Education Fair Scheduled for February 24th

By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department

The Garrett County Health Department is bringing substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery education to the Mountain Lake Park community and the surrounding area. 

“We want to make it easy for community members to get connected with the services they need so they can have a more positive pathway into their future,” said James Michaels, Program Coordinator at the Garrett County Health Department.  “When we started talking about scheduling this event, many different agencies and groups reached out to us and asked if they could attend to provide their resources to the community.” 

The Prevention Education Fair is being held at Southern Garrett County Rescue Squad at 200 Baltimore Avenue on Friday, February 24, from 6-8 p.m. While the community can attend anytime throughout the evening, pizza will be served from 6:30-7 pm. 

“Everyone is invited,” continued Michaels, “It’s designed to be appropriate for all ages. There will be fun games that will educate, prevention information, and pizza and other snacks will be provided to keep your kids – and you – happy.”

More than 10 community partners are preparing to set up a table to provide education for their specific piece to the prevention, treatment, and recovery puzzle. Emergency responders will be available to give tours of their vehicles.

“Building strong relationships are key to preventing underage substance use, overdoses, and overdose deaths,” said Sandy Miller, Prevention Supervisor. “Communities coming together to provide education, share resources, and make connections are win-win elements which help create healthier communities.”  

The Health Department will be providing the following:

• Medication Take-Back – Bring your expired or unneeded medications for disposal –
  learn WHY safe disposal is so important, HOW you can do it correctly at home, and
  WHERE the permanent drop boxes are located.
• Underage Drinking Prevention – Learn how to keep alcohol out of the hands of underage youth
• Vaping Prevention – Learn about the youth Vaping Epidemic and the Quit Options
• Mindfulness – Learn how you can improve your mental health through mindfulness exercises
• Narcan Distribution – Overdose Response Education – Be ready to save a life by carrying Narcan
• Treatment & Recovery Services – Learn what’s available.
• Meth Prevention information will be available.

For more information about the event call 301-334-7730. The Health Department is providing the fair with funds from Maryland Department of Health and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.