BRIDGEWATER –Chief Christopher D. Delmonte is pleased to announce that the Bridgewater Police Department, in conjunction with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), will once again be participating in National Drug Take Back Day later this month.
WHEN:
Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE:
Bridgewater Police Department, 220 Pleasant St.
WHAT:
National Drug Take Back Day is a biannual, free, no-questions-asked event that gives the community the opportunity to aid in the fight against substance use disorder by disposing of potentially dangerous expired, unwanted or unused prescription drugs. As part of the event, residents can drop off unwanted pills or patches, but not liquids, needles or sharps.
Additionally, this year residents will be able to dispose of vape pens or other e-cigarette devices only after the batteries are removed from the devices. Vape pens or e-cigarettes with batteries will not be accepted.
If the battery cannot be removed, residents can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept their vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal. Residents may also contact their local Hazardous Materials Management Facility to determine if they accept these devices, and for additional guidance regarding proper disposal.
“We encourage all of our residents to use this opportunity to get rid of any old or unwanted prescriptions, especially those who are looking to get rid of old e-cigarettes,” Chief Delmonte said. “E-cigarettes and vape pens will only be accepted on this day, but residents are welcomed to use the kiosk in our station’s lobby at any time throughout the year.”
According to the Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration’s report on the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 3.6% of the population in the United States misused pain relievers in 2018 and of those, more than half had obtained those medications from a friend or relative.
The Bridgewater Police also have a permanent take-back box in the police station lobby for those who wish to dispose of prescriptions, but are unable to attend Take Back Day. Residents should note that no liquids, needles, sharps or inhalers can be dropped off at the kiosk.
The community is also reminded that masks will be required at both the Bridgewater Police Department’s National Drug Take Back Day event and any time residents visit the drug disposal kiosk during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs, about this month’s Take Back Day or for complete results from past Take Back Day events, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.
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