(VERNON, Connecticut) – The Vernon ROCKS Coalition and Vernon Police are hosting a Drug Take Back Day event on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Rockville Walgreens, 188 Union Street, Vernon.
People can easily and safely drop off unwanted and unused prescription medications, as well as electronic smoking devices. People from Vernon and beyond are welcome to bring these items for free disposal.
E-cigarettes and vapes can also be dropped off at the take back event. Batteries should be removed.
Opioid deaths increased during the pandemic and leftover medications in homes can place young people or those struggling with addiction at risk.
“Leftover and unneeded medications, especially opioids, can be misused and pose a real danger,” Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne said. “This free program is a great way to make our homes and community safer.”
Although Vernon Police are co-sponsors of the event, people can dispose of medications no questions asked.
“Taking the time to go through your cabinets and medicine chest to pull out medications you no longer need or use can help prevent addiction and save lives,” said Michelle Hill, Vernon’s Director of Youth Services and Chairperson of Vernon ROCKS. “Bring those medications out to Walgreens on Saturday and we will make sure they are disposed of properly and safely.”
For people who cannot make it on Saturday, unneeded prescription medications can always be placed in a drop box in the lobby at the Vernon Police Department, 725 Hartford Turnpike.