Burlington County Freeholder Linda Hughes announced that the county will participate in a national initiative to help fight substance abuse.
Freeholder Linda Hughes announced Wednesday, April 12 that the Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders has established April 29 as Prescription Drug Take Back Day in Burlington County. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in partnership with local police departments, takes part in an annual effort to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs.
“On Saturday, April 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. residents are encouraged to join the rest of the nation in this important initiative to help fight and bring to light the dangers of the substance abuse epidemic,” said Freeholder Hughes.
Prescriptions can be dropped off at the Burlington Township Police Department at 851 Old York Road. The drop boxes accept solid pharmaceuticals such as pills, capsules, patches, inhalers, and pet medications. They cannot accept syringes or liquids.
Hughes said the Freeholder Board is partnering with the New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs, the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, and local law enforcement agencies to participate in “Project Medicine Drop.”
“Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including home medicine cabinets,” Hughes said. “To help address this problem, the County has established a permanent medication drop box program in partnership with local law enforcement agencies.”
The goal is to double the amount of prescription drug boxes available year-round throughout the County by 2020, Hughes said.
“We know by using these boxes and keeping medications of all kinds out of the wrong hands we can help save lives,” Hughes said.
For more information about the April 29 National Prescription Drug Take Back Day visit www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback.
