Blog
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Prescripton drug dropoff at East Chattanooga Weed and Seed Wednesday, June 09, 2010
East Chattanooga Weed and Seed and East Side Task Force (ECWS and ESTF) have been working together for years to improve the quality of life in Chattanooga. With their multiagency approach to law enforcement, crime prevention, and community revitalization, ECWS and ESTF aim to prevent, control, and reduce violent crime, drug abuse, and gang activity in East Chattanooga.
Both organizations have noticed the threat posed to Chattanooga by improper disposal of prescription drugs, an issue with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, the community, and the environment. Unused or expired medications sitting idle in medicine cabinets can lead to medication errors, accidental overdoses, and inappropriate use. Patients are often advised to dispose of medications by flushing them down the toilet or washing them down the sink, but this practice sadly leads to contamination of water supplies and landfills.
ECWS and ESTF are offering a free, safe, easy, and confidential way to dispose of unused and unwanted medications on Saturday, June 12 from 11 am – 3 pm. Prescription and over-the-counter medications can be brought to the Weed and Seed office (1502 McCallie) at this time to be disposed of by law enforcement officials. Medications should be delivered in their original containers (if possible) with the medication name and information visible. Any personal information should be crossed out. IV bags, sharps, needles, and radioactive medications will not be accepted.
Also, given the widely known dangers of mercury, The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation will be exchanging mercury thermometers for new mercury-free thermometers at this event free of charge.
For more information about East Chattanooga Weed and Seed and East Side Task Force, call 423-752-4449 or visit their website.
