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Getting rid of outdated or unwanted medications is a good idea, but knowing the safest method of disposal can be tricky. Luckily, the Greenwich Police Department is holding a medication turn-in day this month for all residents.
"There's been other programs like this in Fairfield County and the state and all over the country," said Detective Jim Manning of the Community Impact Section. "It's kind of like a hazmat day."
You can shed your meds from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, at the Greenwich Police Department at 11 Bruce Ave. Bring expired, unwanted or unneeded prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and pet medications for safe, environmentally friendly disposal by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration.
"We're doing this for public safety, to keep them out of the hands of kids, people who shouldn't be taking them. Environmentally, it keeps them out of the wastewater and drinking water and keeps it out of garbage disposals," Manning said. "Expired meds have a tendency to break down in efficacy over time and sometimes can change depending on the potency of the drug and could potentially antagonize the body."
Manning said medications should be left in original containers.
Also, household-cleaning chemicals, paints, sharps or needles cannot be accepted.
The medication turn-in day is a first for Greenwich and is sponsored by the town of Greenwich, Greenwich Police Department, Greenwich Hospital and the state Department of Consumer Protection. It is supported by Silver Shield of Greenwich, Greenwich Youth Service Council, CAPP and the Community Health Improvement Partnership. For more information call 203-863-4444.
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