6a015393f55fc9970b017d41137d32970c-800wi

Melrose Police Department
Michael L. Lyle, Chief
56 W. Foster St.
Melrose, MA 02176

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, Oct. 19, 2018

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Melrose Police to Participate in National Drug Take Back Day

MELROSE — Chief Michael L. Lyle reports that the Melrose Police Department will once again partner with the Drug Enforcement Administration for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day next week.

On Saturday, Oct. 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., officers will be available at the Melrose Police Station, 56 West Foster St., to collect prescription drugs from any resident wishing to dispose of their old, unwanted or unneeded prescriptions. The event is free of charge.

For another year, Walgreens, 897 Main Street, is working with the Melrose Police Department to also serve as a drop-off location. A medication disposal kiosk will be available inside the building, and residents can dispose of their medications during regular pharmacy hours.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, which is organized by the DEA, addresses a crucial public safety and public health issue. The last event in April brought in 949,046 pounds — 474.5 tons — of drugs for disposal from more than 4,683 collection sites.

Medicines left in home cabinets are highly susceptible to misuse and abuse. Studies indicate that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

As part of Take Back Day, the Melrose Police Department will accept pills and patches, but cannot take liquids, needles or sharps.

###

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *