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AUGUSTA — Law enforcement officials in Kennebec and Somerset counties aee taking part in presecription drug take-back days in the coming weeks.
Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing of these drugs while also education the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.
The Maine National Guard is partnering with the Augusta Police and Kennebec Counry Sheriff’s Office from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, April 20, at the Augusta Armory, 179 Western Ave.
Volunteers from all three organizations will be available to accept unwanted prescriptions. After the collection, the drugs will be safely and responsibly disposed of by law enforcement personnel. Please do not bring used needles to this event.
In Somerset County, the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the Skowhegan Police Department and Maine State Police, will participate in the National Take Back Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at the Skowhegan Police Department.
Also accepting meds are police departments in Fairfield, Pittsfield; the Maine State Police, Troop C Barracks; and Somerset County Jail/Sheriff’s Office in Jackman and Madison.
Beginning in 2011, the Take Back Boxes and Events have collected 6,293 pounds of medication in Somerset County, according to a news release.
Unused or expired prescription medications are a public safety issue, leading to accidental poisoning, overdose, and abuse. Prescription medications can be just as dangerous as street drugs when taken without a prescription or a doctor’s supervision. Medications thrown in the trash can be retrieved and abused or illegally sold and flushing these items contaminates the water supply. Safe and proper disposal both saves lives and protects the environment.
Individuals may also bring medication to a drop box in their area at any time with no questions asked.
For a list of drop boxes in Somerset and Kennebec counties, visit www.somersetpublichealth.org/meds or call 207-858-8463.
