Take part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 27, 2024, an awareness event which aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. It is coordinated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), state and local law enforcement agencies, and community partners to remove potentially dangerous controlled substances from homes.
The Spearfish Police Department, located at 225 West Illinois Street, features a drop box right outside its lobby door which is accessible 24 hours a day, every day, for people to anonymously drop off expired or unused prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, pet medicines, and vitamin supplements for destruction (no syringes/sharps). All collected medications will be disposed of by law enforcement in accordance with state guidelines and the DEA.
In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed more than 8,300 tons of medications from circulation since its inception.
Unused or expired drugs are unsafe as they can be scavenged or sold illegally; children and animals could be poisoned if they find and swallow drugs; and they can be toxic to the environment. Officials discourage flushing medication down the toilet – unless medications specifically indicate that they can be flushed – because of the public health implication of drugs entering the ecosystem and potential negative effects on the water supply.
For a list of additional collection sites and more information about National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, CLICK HERE.