The semi-annual collection of unused prescription meds and other drugs takes place this Saturday at mainly law enforcement facilities in the Northwoods.
The Drug Enforcement Administration sponsors the Prescription Drug Take Back Initiative, designed to have the public bring in unused drugs.
Rhinelander Police Captain Ronald Lueneburg says the program has been active, nationally, for several years....
"...it allowed a vehicle for people with prescription drugs and other over-the-counter medications in a means that was confidential and good for the environment. It prevents people from flushing medications down the toilet, getting them into the septic and water table. It allows a secure measure for the drugs to be incinerated and properly disposed of...."
Lueneburg says the program has brought in a large amount of unwanted pharmaceuticals...
"....we we're able to take in between fifty and eighty pounds of drugs at each of those events. We also have a drop box in the lobby of the police department where people can come in at any time during regular business hours Monday through Friday and drop off prescription medication or over the counter medication in a confidential way....."
Last April, Americans turned in 900,000 pounds of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds of pills.
Besides Rhinelander, the police departments in Minocqua, Three Lakes, Tomahawk, Lac du Flambeau, Antigo, Eagle River and Park Falls are collection points. The Sheriff's departments in Oneida, Vilas, and Price counties are also collection points, as is the Oneida County Landfill.
The collection is set for Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
