The Arlington Police Department, in partnership with the US DEA, is providing residents with the opportunity to dispose of expired or unused medications during the Fall Drug Take Back event. Slated for October 25, this initiative offers a safe and anonymous avenue for disposing of prescription drugs. In a report by the Office of Communication, the Drug Take Back Day is set to take place between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at four designated locations across the city.
Prescription drug misuse often starts from the home medicine cabinet, which makes the proper disposal of these medications critical in preventing accidental overdoses. In addition to reducing health risks, the program supports Arlington Water Utilities' efforts to protect the local water supply by preventing drugs from being flushed down the drain. According to the City of Arlington, accepted items include "controlled, non-controlled, and over-the-counter medications for humans or pets", as well as "single use, auto-injectors" and vapes.
For convenience, the Drug Take Back event will operate at multiple sites, including the Ott Cribbs Public Safety Center located at 620 W. Division St., and Medical City Arlington at 3301 Matlock Road (Lot A). Other spots include Dr. Theron L. Bowman South Police Service Center at 1030 SW Green Oaks Blvd. and the Walgreens at 4400 W. Green Oaks Blvd. The collection guidelines specify that liquids should remain in their original containers and that personal possession of medications will be maintained throughout the disposal process.
Adding to the community health resources, Health Services staff will be present at the Ott Cribbs Public Safety Center to provide two free doses of naloxone, a medicine that quickly reverses opioid overdoses. Additionally, visitors will have the chance to win a prescription drug lock box donated by Cook Children’s, designed to prevent children's access to medications. The City of Arlington notes these services are available "to residents as requested," and participants are not required to drop off medications to access them.
