I encourage you to take a few moments to check your home for unused or expired prescription medication. You can then bring them on April 26, between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to the Escondido Police and Fire Headquarters (1163 N. Centre City Parkway) to have them properly disposed of for free and with no questions asked. Please note: liquids, needles or other sharp objects cannot be accepted.
The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, sponsored by the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration, aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential of abuse of medications. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from the medicine cabinets of family and friends. Please be aware that medications should not be flushed down the toilet or thrown in the trash due to potential environmental hazards.
Last October, Americans turned in more than 324 tons of medication at the 7th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. I am proud that Escondido Police Department and the Palomar Health Communities Coalition will host a site again this year.