Now that it is flu season, many people are reaching for sanitary wipes provided at stores.

“It’s so easy to pick up things and germs. I do like to use the disinfectant wipes whenever I can,” said Vickie Markovich, a Windber resident.

“Yeah, I don’t like to touch things. I try to avoid contact as much as possible,” said Tim Doerzbacher, a Green Guard First Aid and Safety Services employee.

However, germs are not the only concern.

First responders warn it is possible for people to be exposed to drugs in public places: shopping carts, gas stations, etc.

“With all these new designer drugs they’re making, you never know what you’re coming into contact with, for anybody,” said West End Ambulance Manager Ira Hart.

Powerful opioids like fentanyl are linked to drug overdoses and can be spread through the air or contact with skin. Hart says while it’s not a very likely risk, it’s one people should still be aware of.

“Yes, there could be a danger. I can’t say 100%, put your hands on a shopping cart, you’re going to overdose on something,” Hart said. “Carfentanyl is an animal tranquilizer. So, if they’re using this to put an animal down, you can imagine what it would do to a person.”

Hart said there is no need to panic or even avoid touching things like shopping carts, however people should take precautions by using sanitary wipes and washing hands.

“Whether it be for drugs or germs, whatever. I’d still wipe off that cart,” Hart said.

Hart says the real danger is for first responders coming in direct contact with drugs, as well as family members and friends of drug users who may be exposed.

“My biggest fear is for people in a residence where an overdose happened. That would be your concern,” Hart said.

Cambria County Coroner Jeff Lees and first responders are warning everyone to stay away from suspected drug paraphernalia, including needles, powders, cotton balls or q-tips. They say you should call police to clean it up.

“I don’t usually come into contact with individuals that are taking drugs, but I guess that is a risk and something I need to think about more,” said Markovich.