Do you have unused or expired medication laying around?
You can dispose of them at a Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on October 24.
The Prince William County Police Department (PWCPD) is teaming up with the Manassas City Police Department, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and community groups for the event.
It seeks to prevent drug abuse and theft, according to a release from the PWCPD.
Accidental drug overdoses, abuse and poisoning can be caused by unused and expired prescriptions, according to the DEA.
Most people who abuse medication acquire it from friends and family.
Drugs that are thrown away may be abused or sold, and medication flushed down the toilet can pollute water supplies.
Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., community members may drop off medication at these locations: Novant Health UVA Health System Prince William Medical Center, 8700 Sudley Road in Manassas; Novant Health UVA Health System Haymarket Medical Center, 15225 Heathcote Boulevard in Haymarket; or Sentara Lake Ridge; 12825 Minnieville Road in Woodbridge.
Officials aren’t accepting illicit drugs, needles, compressed cylinders, hydrogen peroxide, or medication that has iodine.
Participants who can’t peel off the labels may protect their privacy by concealing personal information with a permanent marker.
If you don’t have access to drug take-back events may also mix unused and expired medication with coffee grounds or kitty litter before putting it in a bag and throwing it away.
To learn more about the Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, contact the Prince William County Crime Prevention Unit at 703-792-7270.
