HISTORIC TRIANGLE — Local residents are encouraged to clean out their medicine cabinets this weekend.
In a national effort, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is asking people to properly dispose of their expired, unused or unwanted prescription medications.
Now in its 11th year, National Drug Take Back Day will see the DEA team up with local police departments, where residents can drop off their leftover medications in a safe and eco-friendly way.
As studies have shown that unused prescription drugs can contribute to the rate of drug addictions and overdoses, the event was established to allow residents to turn in their unused prescription drugs “safely and anonymously,” according to the Take Back Day website.
The event will be held this Saturday, April 24 with the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office, James City County and City of Williamsburg Police Departments all participating.
Williamsburg Police Department
The City of Williamsburg Police Department is partnering with the Williamsburg Fire Department for Drug Take Back Day.
“The location is set up like a drive-thru so participants do not have to exit their vehicle,” WPO spokesperson John Heilman said.
The event will be held at the Williamsburg City Fire station at 440 N Boundary Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
James City County Police Department
James City County Police Department will be at the James City County Law Enforcement Center located at 4600 Opportunity Way on Saturday to collect unused or unwanted prescription drugs from the public.
The program will be anonymous and “no-questions-asked,” according to a March 21 press release from JCC.
Solid dosage medications will be accepted, but “intra-venous solutions, liquid medications, over-the-counter medications, injectables and needles will not be accepted,” read the press release.
Illicit drugs, like marijuana or methamphetamines, will also not be accepted. Citizens can bring their E-cigarettes and vaping devices, but the batteries must be removed.
The event will also be set up like a drive-through from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office
The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office will serve as a drop-off site.
According to an April 18 social media post, the event will be held at the Public Works building located at 105 Service Dr. in Yorktown from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The public is encouraged to drop off expired or unwanted prescription pills and patches.
At the same time and location, residents can also bring up to five boxes of personal papers to have shredded.
The York-Poquoson D.A.R.E personnel are partnering with the York County Beautification Committee to collect paper and plastic bags, according to a March 17 news release.
Those who wish to participate in the event can check the DEA site to find nearby disposal locations.
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