(MSC News)--A tradition of safety returns this weekend, as law enforcement across the nation collect unused prescription drugs.
That happens Saturday during National Drug Take Back Day.
Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt says law enforcement agencies across the state will join in the nationwide effort to see prescription drugs safely disposed of. “Unused medications are dangerous for kids, pets and the environment,” Schmidt said. “Getting these leftover medicines out of the medicine cabinets keeps them from falling into the wrong hands and makes our communities safer.”
Since the program began in 2010, the semi-annual event has collected more than 28 tons of unwanted medications in Kansas alone.
Locally, participating Kansas agencies include the Brown, Atchison and Leavenworth County Sheriff's Offices, along with the Marshall County Sheriff's Office, which is partnering with the Marshall County Health Department.
The Leavenworth and Lansing Police Department's are also hosting drop off locations.
To find the specific sites where prescription drugs will be accepted, go here.
Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are increasing, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that traditional methods for disposing of unused medicines – flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash – pose potential safety and health hazards and should be avoided.
© Many Signals Communications
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Effingham woman killed Friday in Atchison wreck
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Atchison man involved in fatal NW MO crash
Rural Horton man arrested on multiple drug charges
Street lights to be discussed at Monday city meeting
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Meteorologist Spencer: Geometric Watch means electronic disruptions
Two file to challenge local legislator
USD 430 Board accepts resignations, approves new hires
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Truck fire at CGB facility in Falls City
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
BC's Pate remembered by students, college family
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
Update: Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
LATEST STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Wed signing means full funding for KS education
MHMA Mock Trial Team sees natl success
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
Update: Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists