Prescription Take-Back Day, April 30, 10-2

Chief Scott Thompson of the Morris Plains Police has announced that the department will participate in Operation Take Back on April 30. This nation-wide effort aims to destroy outdated or no-longer-needed prescription medications before they fall into the wrong hands. Here are five good reasons why you should start clearing out the medicine cabinet now.

1. Because We're Fighting An Epidemic: According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, "Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high–more Americans currently abuse prescription drugs than the number of those using cocaine, hallucinogens, and heroin combined."
2. Because You Never Know Who Opens Your Medicine Cabinet: The DEA has stated that, "Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet." So, even if nobody in your own family abuses prescription drugs, you still have to worry about people who visit for social occasions, your children's friends, workers who come to your house–really, anyone who uses your bathroom.
3. Because The Medicine Cabinet Can Be a Gateway: Many drug abusers get their first experience by trying out somebody's else's prescription medication.
4. Because We Want To Break The Record: The first ever Take-Back Day, held in September of 2010, was a huge success, with Americans turning in more than 121 tons of prescription drugs. The agency hopes to collect even more this spring .
5. Because It's Easy: The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. The drop-off point couldn't be more convenient–it's at. And if that's not enough, they'll even give you a free hot dog and other refreshments.

So bring your unwanted prescriptions to Investors Savings Bank, 736 Speedwell Avenue on Saturday, April 30th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.