WHEELING, W.Va. – Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard is asking all residents in the Northern District of West Virginia to rid their homes of unwanted and used medications easily and safely.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is holding its 20th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 24 at locations across the country. The nationwide event aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.

“Too many times, prescription medications end up in the wrong hands. If you have unwanted and unused medications in your home, you could potentially be harming someone you care about,” said Bernard. “Drug Take Back Day is a safe and convenient way to ensure your loved ones and friends remain safe.”

Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

Collection sites will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations in order to maintain the safety of all participants and local law enforcement.

DEA encourages the public to reach out to their local law enforcement to find out if they have any permanent drug disposal locations throughout their local community.

DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms. DEA will also accept vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers, only after the batteries are removed from the devices. If the battery cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal. Liquids, including intravenous solutions, syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs cannot be dropped off. This service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

For more information on DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, and to find a collection site near you, visit www.deatakeback.com