This year, National Prescription Drug Take Back Day falls on Saturday, October 25. The date serves as a safe, convenient, and responsible way for citizens to adequately dispose of prescription drug medications.
The City of Waukesha has decided to participate, offering an opportunity for the public to bring back prescription drugs that have either gone unused or that have expired.
The medications were available to be taken to the Police Department (1901 Delafield St.) between 10 am and 2 pm.
After dropping off the unused medications, the city of Waukesha was then able to properly dispose of the drugs. Proper disposal is an incredibly important procedure, as it keeps the unwanted drugs out of the water supply as well as keeping them out of the wrong hands.
The City of Waukesha has informed citizens who were unable to make it to their Police Department on October 25 that there is another option available.
There is a year round secure disposal box in the Police Station lobby where residents can bring their unused medications at any time during business hours (Between 8 am and 4:30 pm daily).
Waukesha’s involvement in the National Drug Take Back Day comes from their continued effort to fight back against the growing use of opiates in the community. This program is one of the first steps in creating a solution to the rising drug crisis.
Waukesha’s Drug Disposal Program partners with the community to help create services and start conversations that can be used to solve changing social issues.
The drop box is a helpful tool because it allows residents to remain anonymous, encouraging them to utilize the system because of its ease. Their ultimate goal is to limit the access of unused medications to people who may abuse them.
Some of the accepted materials include pills, patches, creams, inhalers, liquids, and ointments. However, objects such as aerosol cans, biohazards waste, syringes, vape pens, mercury thermometers, and restricted controlled substances (illicit drugs) are not accepted.
The program is designed to be easy and therefore affected. It is available in municipalities across the state, with additional information and helpful maps available through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
