Healthy Communities Coalition of Lyon and Storey Counties staff and AmeriCorps service members will assist with the annual DEA National Take Back Day to raise awareness about healthy impacts for communities when unused and expired prescription drugs are safely disposed of. The effort is part of the nationwide prescription drug round-up initiative.

When: There will be a conveniently located disposal event in partnership with the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office on Saturday, October 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: In front of Smith’s Food and Drug on Highway 50 in Dayton, Nevada (2200 US-50 East, Dayton, NV 89403).

This event is designed to offer education about safe disposal of unused or expired prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, prescription liquids, and pet medications. No sharps (syringes) can be accepted at this event, however.

Collecting expired and unused medications can prevent damage to the water supply that would otherwise result from flushing them down toilets and drains. The National Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) stresses that such events also help address a vital public safety and public health issue. They explain “that medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.”

Free at-home prescription drug disposal kits (Deterra bags) are also available. The kits provide an option for proper disposal at home and are safe for trash disposal. In addition, a limited supply of Naloxone kits will be available.