STONEHAM – Chief James McIntyre is pleased to announce that the Stoneham 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. 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE:
Stoneham Police Department: 47 Central St., Stoneham
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 misuse 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.
According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2019 alone an estimated 9.7 million people misused prescription pain relievers, 4.9 million people misused prescription stimulants and 5.9 million people misused prescription tranquilizers or sedatives.
“We are looking forward to this event and encourage residents and the community to safely dispose of unwanted or unused prescription drugs,” Chief McIntyre said. “It is important to understand the severity of drug misuse and what could happen if those drugs fall into the wrong hands. We want to offer a safe place for residents to seek resources and get rid of those substances.”
Stoneham 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.
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.