Drug Take-Back Day in Merrimack on April 26

A press release from Merrimack Police Department on the Drug Take-Back Day on April 26:

On Saturday April 26, 2014, The Merrimack Police Department in cooperation with Merrimack Safeguard will be participating in the US Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Diversion Control National Take Back Initiative. 

The Merrimack Police Department will be a collection site for persons that wish to dispose of unwanted and unused prescription medications. Collection times will be between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM for those wishing to participate in the service. 
This will be the fifth initiative that the Department has taken part in. Merrimack alone has collected a total of 705 pounds of unused prescription drugs during the last three events.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. More than seven million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs, according to the 2009 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health. 

Each day, approximately, 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet.

This is a great opportunity for all. For those who have missed prior events or anyone that has subsequently accumulated more unwanted, unused prescription drugs, to safely dispose of them. Further information and other collection sites can be found on the USDOJ DEA Office of Diversion Control web site.