Columbus City Councilmembers Urge Residents to Properly Dispose of Prescription Drugs
[COLUMBUS-OH] On Saturday April 29, Columbus residents have the opportunity to drop-off unused or unwanted medicines at Columbus Public Health, 240 Parsons Ave., for proper disposal from 10am-2pm during the “Drug Drop-off Day” event.
“I am happy to stand up and support Columbus Public Health as a drug drop-off site,” said Council President Pro Tem Priscilla Tyson. “These drop-offs are extremely important to the health and safety of Columbus families.”
Prescription medications play an important role in the health and vitality of our community. However, the misuse and improper disposal of unused or unwanted medicines can harm families, the community and the environment.
“Most people who abuse prescription drugs get them from friends or family members. Proper disposal of prescription drugs is an important step in tackling the opioid epidemic,” said Council President Zach Klein. “Through Columbus’ 'Drug Drop-off Day,' our community is taking an active step to be part of the solution.”
In addition, typical methods for disposing unused medicines include flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash. Both pose potential safety and health hazards.
“The City of Columbus provides clean drinking water to over 22 communities and nearly 1.2 million consumers. Most residents do not think about where their water goes or where it comes from,” said Public Utilities Committee Chair Michael Stinziano. “Keeping drugs and potential contaminates out of our water supply is of great importance to our residents’ and families’ health and safety.”
Columbus Public Heath will accept: prescription pills, over the counter pills, patches, pet medications, vitamins and needle sharps. Liquids, gel caps, aerosol cans, thermometers and inhalers will not be accepted.
The event is sponsored by Columbus Public Health, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Columbus Division of Police and the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO).
Last October, Americans turned in over 730,000 pounds of prescription drugs at almost 5,200 sites. Overall, in 12 previous take back events, the DEA and its partners have taken in over 7.1 million pounds of pills.
For more information visit: https://www.columbus.gov/publichealth/features/Drug-Drop-Off-April-29/.
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