Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue is dealing with an increasing number of calls related to the synthetic drug flakka.
"It turns into seven, sometimes eight calls a shift on flakka," Lt. John Heiser said, during a recent ride-along with NBC 6.
Heiser said the calls can be unpredictable and dangerous. When crews respond, they have to prepare for anything.
"You'll find them running around without any clothes on, bizarre behavior. Almost like a schizophrenic behavior," Heiser said.
Excited delirium lends itself to those who run naked through the streets. Excessive fevers force the person to strip, trying to cool off.
One man high on flakka thought someone was after him. He tried to break into the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, even throwing bricks to seek safety.
"Some of these patients will be combative so we have to have police escort us," Heiser said. "They get this superhuman strength and you'll see them take of their clothes because they become hyperthermic."
During one call on NBC 6's ride-along, a man admitted to police that he swallowed a bag of flakka.
"I'm feeling bad," the man said. "My chest."
Officials say flakka, which has been termed "$5 insanity is readily available just a few blocks from the fire house.
Heiser said the drug is showing no signs of slowing down.
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For frequently asked questions about flakka from Broward County, click here.
