Metro Atlanta residents took action on National Drug Takeback Day by participating in local efforts to collect and safely dispose of unused or expired medication. Gwinnett County police were among those who hosted drug take back stations, aiming to thwart the misuse of prescription drugs often obtained from the medicine cabinets of relatives. According to Atlanta News First, these initiatives provide an anonymous way for individuals to rid their homes of potentially dangerous substances.
In addition to Gwinnett County's involvement, various other police departments joined the cause. Not to be left out, the Douglasville Police Department reported collecting over 160 pounds of medicine during the event. On a similar note, the East Point Police Department welcomed residents at their headquarters, providing a secure location for the disposal of prescription drugs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. As reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, this event, and others like it across the metro area, offer the public a convenient and responsible means to dispose of medications, while educating on the dangers of drug abuse.
Catering to a variety of needs, the Gwinnett County Police Department set up multiple drop-off points, including the department's 6 precincts and Coolray Field. The Peachtree City Police Department and the Snellville Police Department also hosted events, each designating specific locations for community members to bring their unused prescriptions. It is noted that drugs in the form of tablets, capsules, and patches were accepted, but liquids, syringes, and other forms of sharps were not.
Community members looking to participate who might have missed these events can turn to the advice of the FDA, which recommends flushing old prescription medications when takeback options are not available. This guideline provides a year-round option for individuals committed to preventing drug abuse and safeguarding their households. Nevertheless, checking with local police departments through social media or direct contact for event details is encouraged, as many hosted drug takeback initiatives that were open to the public.
