The Greer Commission of Public Works and the Greer Police Department are teaming up to help people safely get rid of unwanted medications.
Drug Take Back Day
Drug Take Back Day is set for Saturday, October 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Greer CPW's Customer Service Complex at 301 McCall Street. Anyone can drop off unwanted medications -- no questions asked. It's a drive up and drop off event. You don't even have to get out of your vehicle.
Bring medication in a sealed bag or container with all personal information removed.
"It's important for us to make sure any unused medication is disposed of properly, not flushed down the toilet, thrown in a trash can, or left sitting in a medicine cabinet for temptation of maybe a teenager or someone who has an addiction to get ahold of," Captain Chris Forrester with the Greer Police Department said.
National Event
Greer CPW estimates that during the 10 years it has hosted this event, organizers have disposed of more than 1,500 pounds of unwanted, unused, or expired medication. The Greer Drug Take Back event coincides with the 31st annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day led by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The DEA says the campaign has helped safely remove more than 10,000 tons of unwanted medication nationwide.
Environmental Impact
Greer CPW says this effort helps not only prevent drugs from getting in the wrong hands. It also protects the environment.
"Medications that are flushed or improperly discarded can enter our waterways and wastewater systems where they cannot always be completely removed," Greer CPW's Public Information Coordinator Alison Rauch added. "Proper disposal helps protect our drinking water sources and the environment for future generations."
What to Bring and Not to Bring
Organizers ask the public not to bring sharps or liquid medications to Drug Take Back Day. You can drop off pills, patches, and pet medications.
If you aren't able to attend the event on Saturday, you can find permanent drug drop boxes at the Greer Police Department and Greer Memorial Hospital.