By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will be holding its 27th nationwide “Prescription Take Back” initiative. They provide proper disposal of prescription drugs in order to prevent prescription drug abuse. Community members will be able to bring unused, expired and unwanted drugs to select sites.

The Washington County Sheriff's Department, a select “Prescription Take Back” site located at 801 S Jackson St, Salem, will be hosting their quarterly drive from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, October 26. They will take most items and medications, however they will not take vape products or needles. The department will have a drive thru area where you simply hand off the medicine to a standby attendant. No questions asked. They then are incinerated the same day, which is the approved method of disposal. Flushing medicine down the toilet or throwing them in the trash is never advised.

This program addresses vital safety and public health issues. Medicines in the home cabinet are subject to diversion, misuse and abuse. Sometimes obtained from family and friends, prescription drug abuse is at an all-time high. There is a high number of accidental poisoning and overdoses. Needles new or used will not be taken. The Washington County Sheriff will also be collecting non-perishable food which will be donated to local food banks in Salem. Sheriff Brent Miller said, “The food drive is very successful; we usually get 300 to 500 food items.”

The Sellersburg Indiana State Police Post, located at 8014 County Rd 311, Sellersburg, or any ISP posts will be set up to take prescription liquid and pill drugs. They will also take vape pens without batteries and cartridges. However, like the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, they will not take needles regardless if they are new or used. ISP collection lasts from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.