For Immediate Release

Tuesday, March 26, 2019

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Ipswich Police and Ipswich Aware to Host Drug Take Back Day and Touch-A-Truck Event

IPSWICH — Chief Paul Nikas reports that the Ipswich Police Department and Ipswich Aware have partnered to hold a Prescription Drug Take Back Day and Touch-A-Truck event this April.

WHEN:

April 27, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE:

In front of Ipswich Middle and High School, 134 High St.

WHO:

• Ipswich Aware, a multi-disciplinary collaborative of key stakeholders throughout Ipswich working to address the issue of drug addiction in the community
• Members of the Ipswich Police Department

WHAT:

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a semi-annual event that is administered by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Thousands of law enforcement agencies across the country hold prescription “take back” events biannually in an effort to provide locals with an easy, accessible way to dispose of expired or unwanted prescription drugs. Drug Take Back events also serve as an opportunity for law enforcement agencies to educate the public about the potential for abuse of medications.

Studies suggest that the majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.

Ipswich residents are encouraged to drop off expired and unused prescription medications at the Prescription Drug Take Back Day Event, where Ipswich Police will take over custody of the medication and properly dispose of it.

Residents should note that liquids, needles or sharps will not be accepted.

“We’ve had great success with this event in the past, and I urge residents to stop by and drop off any old or unused prescription medications,” Chief Nikas said. “I encourage residents who are struggling, have a loved one who is struggling, or simply want to help us combat substance abuse in our town to contact Ipswich Aware. They’re a great resource to the community, and it’s a pleasure to partner with them on this Drug Take Back Day.”

Ipswich Aware works to prevent, educate, and support individuals struggling with all forms of substance abuse, with an emphasis on opioid use. For more information, visit ipswichaware.squarespace.com.

In conjunction with the Drug Take Back Day, Ipswich Police will also host a “Touch-A-Truck” event for children and families. Public safety and construction vehicles will be present at the event, offering children a chance to see firetrucks, ambulances, police cruisers, and other vehicles up-close.

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