The Folsom Police Department is giving locals the chance to dispose of their unused, unwanted, or expired medications safely so they don't end up in the wrong hands. This comes as a part of National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, aiming to prevent abuse and poisoning that can stem from these substances lingering in household medicine cabinets.
The process is simple: gather all unused pills and put them in a clear, zippered bag. Liquids, gels, and creams need to stay in their original containers, tightly sealed to prevent leaks and spills. Before dropping items off, make sure to strip the containers of any labels that could identify you – this isn't just about safety; it's also about privacy. According to the information provided by the City of Folsom, acceptable items for drop-off include old prescription medications, vape pens, and e-cigarettes.
However, not everything medical can be tossed into the take-back bin. The Folsom Police Department won't be accepting things like intravenous solutions, injectables, or syringes – and not illicit substances, such as marijuana or methamphetamine. If your vape pens or e-cigarettes come with built-in batteries that can't be removed, those are also a no-go, as are inhalers. It's about keeping those potent pharmaceuticals out of the water supply and, perhaps more urgent, out of the temptation zone for youngsters and pets.
The take-back event is a way to help address the opioid crisis. With overdose deaths still rising, safely getting rid of unused medications is an important step. It starts at home by clearing out medicine cabinets. While it might seem small, these actions add up in the fight against a serious public health issue. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 46 Natoma Street.
