Get rid of old Rx safely at Drug Take Back Day
Apr. 29—WILLIMANTIC — Old prescriptions will be collected during an event at Jillson Square Saturday, which is National Drug Take Back Day.
The event will run from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m.
National Drug Take Back Day is a United States Drug Enforcement Administration initiative.
"It's a 'no questions asked' program," said Willimantic Police Cpl. Daniel Rovella, who is running the event.
The event is run by the Willimantic Police in conjunction with the Windham PRIDE ( Partnership to Reduce the Influence of Drugs for Everyone) Coalition. According to the PRIDE website, PRIDE is an initiative designed to " create and foster a safe, drug free environment for the entire community."
According to an email from State Rep. Timothy Ackert, R-Coventry, there were 116 drop boxes in the state as of last year, including boxes at the Willimantic and Coventry police stations. Boxes are located at police stations and local pharmacies.
" It's a program that the ( Willimantic) police department is highly invested in," Rovella said.
The following are accepted at drop boxes and collection events: prescription medications, medication samples, medications for household pets and medicated lotions or ointments.
Items that are not generally accepted include: hazardous waste, thermometers, personal care products ( shampoo, etc.) and needles or other "sharps." Sharps include needles, syringes, auto-injectors, infusion sets and connection needles/ sets. However, Rovella said they will find a means to dispose of any of those items.
Rovella spoke about the dangers of children getting their hands on prescription medications. People are advised they should not flush medications because they can get into lakes, rivers and streams. According to Ackert, research has shown that continuous exposure to low levels of medications has altered the behavior and physiology of fish and aquatic organisms.
He also noted a nationwide study done by the United States Geological Survey in 1999 and 2000 found low levels of drugs such as antibiotics, hormones, contraceptives and steroids in 80% of the streams and rivers tested.
The state Department of Consumer Protection advises the following for proper disposal of medications: " Keep medication in its original container. Use a permanent marker or duct tape to cross out personal information or remove the label.
" Make medication less appealing by mixing it with hot water to dissolve it. Add an undesirable substance, such as salt, ashes, saw dust, used coffee grounds or kitty litter.
" Place medications inside a container such as an empty yogurt or margarine tub to ensure that the contents can not be seen and tape it shut.
" Throw out the container in your trash can. Do not put it in the recycling bin.
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