FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2nd DRUG TAKE BACK DAY

drug take back day information

The Newport News Police Department will once again be participating in a nationwide initiative seeking to prevent increased pill abuse and theft. On Saturday, April 30, 2011 from 10:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. the Police Department along with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will be collecting potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs for destruction. There will be three collection points across the City, the Grissom Library at 366 DeShazor Drive, Sentara Port Warwick at 1031 Loftis Boulevard and Newport News Farmer’s Market at 29th Street and Jefferson Avenue.

Many Americans are not aware that medicines that are lying around in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Prescription drug abuse in the United States is increasing at an alarming rate as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies have shown that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends including from home medicine cabinets. Additionally, most people do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medications. Often these medicines are flushed down a toilet or simply thrown away – both potential safety and health hazards.

This event will offer the opportunity for the community to surrender any expired, unused and unwanted prescription medications. This service is both free and anonymous, no questions asked.

More information can be found at www.nationaltakebackday.com.

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