Conway Police Department will host two drop-off locations for National Drug Take Back Day

The Conway Police Department (CPD) will host two drop-off locations for National Drug Take Back Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the department’s headquarters at 1105 Prairie St. and Sam’s Club at 1250 S. Amity Road.

Billed as a “safe and responsible way for individuals to dispose of their unused, unwanted or expired prescription medications,” the CPD said the service is free and anonymous in a social media post. While medications will be accepted, officers will not be able to accept used needles.

According to Rockwall News, The DEA emphasizes the significance of take-back programs due to the severe opioid crisis in the country. The US faces the harsh reality of drug overdose deaths, a situation that the COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated. Committed to safeguarding Americans’ health and safety, the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day urges individuals to dispose of unneeded medications at home to prevent abuse and addiction.

Through these events, the government not only reduces opportunities for drug abuse in our communities but also educates the public about the grave drug overdose issue in the US. By submitting surplus medications, everyone actively contributes to stopping the vicious cycle of drug abuse, addiction, and overdoses affecting numerous families.

Local law enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Agency are hosting similar events across the state on Saturday. In a news release issued Monday, the Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership said 275 take back boxes will be available across the state on Saturday.

“In 2021, over 107,000 people died of a drug overdose in the United States, which is almost 300 people a day,” the news release read.

Partnership director Kirk Lane said “most young adults who misuse prescription drugs get them from the home of a friend or family member.”

“Practicing the concept of secure, monitor and safely dispose keeps our families and communities safe,” Lane said.

The event was first devised in 2010 and has led to some 274 tons of medications being destroyed. Over 275 take back boxes are available every day of the year.