Plainfield PD Hosts Drug Take Back Day On Oct. 24

PLAINFIELD, IL — The Plainfield Police Department is hosting a prescription drug take back on Oct. 24, providing a unified opportunity for the public to surrender expired, unwanted, or unused pharmaceutical controlled substances and any other medications to law enforcement officers for destruction, and will bring focus to the issue of pharmaceutical drug abuse.

According to Officer Brett Keag of the Plainfield PD, expired or unused medications are a public safety issue, leading to accidental poisoning, overdose, and abuse. Unused drugs that are flushed down the toilet may contaminate our lakes, streams and groundwater causing harm to humans, wildlife and vegetation. Medications thrown in the trash can cause poisoning by accidental ingestion by young children, pets, and even wildlife.

This is a collaborative effort between the Drug Enforcement Administration and state and local law enforcement agencies. This national take-back day provides an opportunity for law enforcement, prevention, treatment and business communities to collaborate and establish a safe collection site for all Americans, regardless of where they reside.

During this event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Plainfield Police Department located at 14300 S. Coil Plus Drive, will act as a host collection site and the following protocols will be followed:

• Controlled, non-controlled, and over the counter substances will be collected. This event is for patients and their families to dispose of unwanted medications. Pharmacies, hospitals, and physicians may not drop off their excess medications for disposal.
• Any solid dosage form pharmaceutical products (tablets, capsules, etc.) in consumer containers maybe accepted. Small (pint size) bottles of cough syrups may be accepted if they are sealed in their original container. The depositor should ensure that the cap is tightly sealed to prevent leakage. There are however items that absolutely will not be accepted.
• Illicit illegal substances such as marijuana or heroin are not part of this initiative and will not be accepted. Also, needles will not be accepted.

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