STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
The Boys & Girls Club of Glasgow-Barren County is launching a new hands-on program aimed at helping local teens better understand the risks and consequences of opioid use.
Club leaders say they plan to showcase the effort Friday at 4:15 p.m., when teens will take part in a live demonstration for visitors.
As part of the program, teens will use “Fatal Vision” opioid simulator glasses designed to mimic some of the effects of opioid intoxication.
According to the club, the glasses simulate slowed reaction time, blurred vision, impaired coordination and difficulty completing everyday tasks.
While wearing the glasses, teens will be asked to carry out routine activities using weights and other hands-on tools.
Organizers say the goal is to give young people a realistic, firsthand experience that shows how opioid impairment can affect not only their own safety, but also the safety of the people around them.
Club staff say they hope the experience will help teens understand the dangers of opioid use in a way that goes beyond classroom lessons or simply hearing about the risks.
The Boys & Girls Club reports it was able to purchase the simulator equipment using a portion of the city’s opioid funding that was designated for the club.
Leaders say they are excited about the new opportunities the gear provides to expand prevention and education work with youth in Glasgow and Barren County.
In addition to teen-focused programming, the club plans to host community events where adults and other residents can try the simulator glasses for themselves.
Organizers say those events will offer a chance for community members to see how opioid impairment can affect everyday tasks and to learn more about local prevention efforts.
The club also has invited Mayor Royse to stop by and try the glasses, but staff say they are still waiting to see if his schedule will allow him to attend.
If the mayor is able to participate, organizers believe it could help draw additional attention to the program and to how the city’s opioid funding is being used.
Key Facts
• Boys & Girls Club of Glasgow-Barren County hosting opioid education session Friday at 4:15 p.m.
• Teens will use “Fatal Vision” opioid simulator glasses to experience effects of impairment.
• Activities include routine tasks with added weights and hands-on challenges.
• Program aims to build understanding and empathy about safety risks tied to opioid use.
• Equipment was bought with a portion of the city’s opioid funding for the club.
• Future community events will invite residents to try the simulator and learn more.
• Mayor Royse has been invited to attend if his schedule allows.
