National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
BECKLEY (WVNS) – Substance use disorder is the case for many across the Mountain State and the nation. Finding drugs can be as easy as opening up your cabinet. Many people have prescription drugs they do not need anymore. To dispose of these drugs, a special event was held.
Saturday, April 27th was ‘National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
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The Beckley Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration partnered to give people a place to dispose of unwanted medications.
Alongside disposing drugs, the Raleigh County Prevention Coalition is setting up to provide an educational perspective.
Amanda Hammons, Chair of the Raleigh County Prevention Coalition, says engaging with the community is essential.
“We wanna make sure that the community is informed of the risk factors of leaving unused medication in their homes, and how that can sometimes lead to youth being susceptible for their first time of use”, said Hammons.
Drug Take Back Day in Raleigh County
Some may be unsure and are scared to dispose of unwanted medications.
David Bailey, Community Services Officer for the Beckley Police Department, says this event is risk free.
“This is a safe, anonymous way to get rid of any kind of prescription drugs that might may be laying around in someone’s house. Whether it be a family member’s who had been on a prescription before and it’s just laying around the house. Pick those up, bring them here so that they can be disposed of safely and properly”, said Bailey to 59News.
Unwanted medications are being disposed of to help the fight against substance use disorder. While many will get rid of medications, they can also learn about the risks as well.
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