The Geneva Police Department will be working with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in collecting expired or unwanted prescription medications Saturday, Sept. 26 as part of the National Drug Take-Back Day.
People can turn in their medications throughout the day to the records specialist at the front desk of the Police Department, 20 Police Plaza. Items that will be accepted include:
• Prescription medications
• Medication samples
• Over-the-counter medications
• Medicated ointments/lotions
• Vitamins
• Pet medications
• Inhalers
• Non-controlled DEA drugs
Pills should be removed from their original container by pouring them directly into a plastic bag. All ointments, liquids, etc. can be placed into a plastic bag in the original container. Blister packs can be submitted without being placed in a plastic bag. People should take any empty prescription bottles and boxes that may contain any personal information back home.
The Police Department will not be accepting any illegal substances/narcotics, thermometers, IV bags, sharps/needles, bloody or infectious waste, and empty containers.
The National Drug Take-Back Day is open to the public. On Sunday, Sept. 27, the Police Department will revert to its current practice of accepting unused medication from only Geneva residents.
Started in 2010, this initiative aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs. These medications should not be flushed down the toilet or sink because they could end up in local drinking water supplies. By turning in old medications, people are reducing the potential risk for abuse of prescription drugs languishing in a home’s bathroom cabinet.