National Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day this Saturday in Waukon, Lansing, Postville

The Northeast Iowa Drug Task Force, in cooperation with Helping Services of Northeast Iowa, is participating in National Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day. This year's event is being held Saturday, April 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. nationwide for the purpose of disposing of expired and/or unused medications and keeping them out of the hands of people who may misuse or abuse them, especially youth.

Three communities in Allamakee County will be hosting drop-off locations for local residents to dispose of prescription drugs during that event timeframe. The Waukon Police Department will host a drop-off location at the Waukon Police Station located at 104 First Street NW. The fire station in Lansing will be a host site at 51 North Front Street. The Postville Police Department will also host a drop-off site at its City Hall location at 147 North Lawler Street.

For the safety and privacy of those disposing of old and/or unused prescription medications, the following recommendations have been suggested:
• Keep all substances in their original containers, if possible.
• All liquid containers must be sealed in leak-proof containers.
• Mark out any identifying information on prescription bottles or containers.
• Unidentified medications will be accepted, with no questions asked.

ITEMS ACCEPTED
• Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications including vitamins, supplements or herbals.
• Thermometers in zip-lock or sealed plastic bags.
• Aerosols or pressurized containers.
• Medication samples
• Hydrogen peroxide.

NOT ACCEPTED THIS YEAR
• Needles, sharps or syringes with needles will NOT be accepted this year.
• Bloody, infectious waste.

Additional drop-off sites throughout Iowa and the nation can be found at www.DEA.gov. Further information can also be found at that site or by contacting local law enforcement agencies.