Chief Michael L. Lyle is pleased to announce that the Melrose Police Department, in conjunction with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), will once again be participating in National Drug Take Back Day later this month.

WHEN:

Saturday, Oct. 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

WHERE:

Melrose Police Department, 56 W. Foster St. Melrose, MA

WHAT:

National Drug Take Back Day is a biannual, free, no-questions-asked event that gives the community the opportunity to aid in the fight against substance use disorder by disposing of potentially dangerous expired, unwanted or unused prescription drugs. As part of the event, residents can drop off unwanted pills or patches, but not liquids, needles or sharps.

According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2019 alone an estimated 9.7 million people misused prescription pain relievers, 4.9 million people misused prescription stimulants and 5.9 million people misused prescription tranquilizers or sedatives.

“We want to offer a safe and convenient place for residents to properly dispose of unwanted or unused prescription medications,” said Chief Lyle, “By attending this event, residents can connect with resources and information while also safely disposing of these medications.”

Melrose Police also have a permanent take back box in the police station lobby for those who wish to dispose of medications, but are unable to attend Take Back Day. Residents should note that no liquids, needles, sharps or inhalers can be dropped off at the kiosk.

The community is also reminded that masks and social distancing will be required at both the Melrose Police Department’s National Drug Take Back Day event and any time residents visit the drug disposal kiosk during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs, about this month’s Take Back Day or for complete results from past Take Back Day events, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.