WLSSD to Host Collection Event for Unwanted Medication

For Immediate Release: 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Contact: Karen L. Anderson, Director of Community Relations

218-740-4776

Sarah Lerohl, Environmental Program Coordinator

218-740-4784

WLSSD to Host Collection Event for Unwanted Medication

Duluth, MN – The Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD) will host a free collection event for unwanted or expired medications at its regional Household Hazardous Waste Facility on Friday, October 14 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. “Medicine Cabinet Clean-Out Day” is a one-day event offering residents free disposal of unwanted medications in a safe, convenient and environmentally sound manner. Due to U.S. drug laws, medication can only be accepted at this location during these specially-staffed events.

“Medications can be prescribed by many types of healthcare practitioners- veterinarians, dentists, physicians- and may be stored in several different spots in the home depending on how they are used,” said Sarah Lerohl, Environmental Program Coordinator. “Be sure to check all the places unwanted medicines might accumulate, and safely dispose of them promptly.” Safe disposal reduces the risk of theft, illicit use, and accidental poisonings by pets or people.

Residents are also encouraged to use the Take It to the Box medication drop box sites at local law enforcement agencies, providing residents with year-round opportunities for safe, convenient, and confidential disposal of unwanted or expired medicines. The drop-off sites are accessible to residents during all public hours at the Duluth Police Department/St. Louis County Sheriff’s Public Safety Building, the Hermantown Police Department, the Proctor Police Department, and the West Duluth Police Substation.

To prepare for all drop off programs:

• Bring prescription or over-the-counter medication in its original container and place in a sealed, clear plastic bag.
• Cross off or scratch out identifying information if desired. Drop off is anonymous, no ID is required.
• Keep medications out of reach of children while storing and transporting material.

• Needles or other medical sharps are only accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste facility, not drop box sites. Separate and package them in rigid containers such as laundry detergent bottles for safe disposal.

Medicine Cabinet Cleanout events are a community effort aimed at preventing accidental poisonings, diversion of medicines for illicit purposes, and the introduction of pharmaceuticals into local waterways via improper disposal down the drain or toilet. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Department will provide law enforcement staff at the event while pharmacists from Essentia Health and St. Luke’s Hospitals and Clinics will aid in the sorting and identifying the collected medication.

Western Lake Superior Sanitary District provides award-winning wastewater and solid waste services to residents, businesses and industries within its 530 square mile service area in Southern St. Louis and northern Carlton counties, and is a nationally recognized leader in pollution prevention.

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