Paramus Hosts Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Forum

The Paramus community is invited to attend a discussion and Q&A Tuesday on prescription drug abuse prevention.

The forum "How Safe is Your Medicine Cabinet" will be held at the Paramus High School on Tuesday, March 12 at 7 p.m.

Councilwoman Maria Elena Bellinger said Tuesday night she urges the community to attend as more people need to be aware of the issues that can start in one's medicine cabinet that can led to serious addiction.

The forum will be moderated by Assemblywoman Connie Wagner and panelists include Detective Sergeant John Devine of the Paramus Police Department, Joseph Traina, student assistance counselor at the high school and Judy Forman of the Bergen County Department of Health Services.

“I’m looking forward to moderating this crucial conversation because I think it’s something every parent should participate in,” Wagner said in at statement.  “Prescription drug abuse is the fastest growing drug problem in the United States.  I think it’s extremely important that parents be aware of the prescription narcotics in their home and how to prevent teens and adolescents from abusing them.”

Last September, the Paramus Police Department became the first in Bergen County to serve as Project Medicine Drop location. A box now sits in the lobby at the police department where residents can safely dispose of unwanted and expired drugs.

The event is jointly sponsored by the Bergen County Prevention Coalition, the State Department of Human Services, the Center for Alcohol and Drug Resources, the Paramus Board of Education and Police Department, the Paramus Municipal Alliance and the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.

To register for this forum contact Joseph Traina at 201-261-7800, ext. 3083 or email jtraina@paramus.k12.nj.us.