Got Drugs? Nationwide Effort Launched to Safely Dispose of Drugs

Expired, unwanted or unused prescription drugs can be disposed of at numerous collection sites around the Southland today as the Drug Enforcement Administration conducts its fourth National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day.

The drop-off sites will be in operation between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. A list of participating collection sites is available online at www.justice.gov/dea. The service is free and anonymous.

The closest drop-off location for Cerritos and Artesia residents is the Lakewood Sheriff's Station located at 5130 N. Clark Ave. in Lakewood. 

The program is designed to focus national attention on the proper disposal of such items, said Natalie Jimenez of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works.

During the last nationwide event, which was held in October, more than 377,000 pounds of prescription drugs were turned in at thousands of sites operated by the DEA and state and local law enforcement authorities.

People unable to drop off their expired, unwanted or unused prescription drugs today can do so under Los Angeles County's 24-hour Safe Drug Drop-Off Program which has secured drop boxes open seven days a week around the clock at 21 sheriff's stations. More information is available at www.CleanLA.com.

- City News Service