Batavia Police Hosts Unwanted Prescription Drop-Off Oct. 23

BATAVIA, IL — Do you have unwanted prescriptions but don't know what to do with them? Local police departments, including Batavia's, are promoting Take Back Prescription Drugs Day Oct. 23, when anyone can bring in their unwanted and expired medications.

The national day addresses a public safety and health issue, Batavia police said in a news release Wednesday.

"The [Drug Enforcement Administration]'s Take Back Day events provide an opportunity for Americans to prevent drug addiction and overdose deaths," the statement reads.

Batavia police offer residents a mailbox-style collection box outside the front lobby of City Hall, at 100 N. Island Ave., where people can anonymously drop off their medications. The collection box is marked, locked and under 24-hour surveillance.

The official time for the event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but people can visit the drop-off station at any time. People need to get a key from the records technician at the front desk before drop off.

Vitamins, medicine samples, over-the-counter and pet medications, and lotions and gels are among the items accepted at the collection site. Labels should be removed from the original container and personal information should be blacked out.

Items that aren't accepted include needles, IV bags, thermometers, illegal substances, DEA-controlled drugs, empty containers and inhalers. More information and guidelines can be found on the city of Batavia's website.

The Batavia Police Department will also collect vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from people as long as the batteries are taken out beforehand. Officials said they're not responsible for removing batteries from the devices. If the battery can't be removed, the police advise people to check with large electronic chain stores that may take and properly dispose of the items.

More collection sites near Batavia can be located through the DEA's website.

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