WLSSD to Host Collection Event for Unwanted Medication
For Immediate Release: 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 10, 2018
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 – 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, July 13 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.
“Between stings and scrapes, sun burns and hot-dog-induced heart burns, your medicine cabinet may be heavily used,” said Sarah Lerohl, Environmental Program Coordinator. “Keep summer time fun and safe by regularly discarding unwanted medicine, reducing the risk of medication mistakes, theft, or accidental poisoning.” The next Medicine Cabinet Clean-Out event is planned for Friday, October 12, 2018.
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. Visit wlssd.com for additional, new drop boxes located at retail pharmacies.
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.
###
Graphics available for publication and broadcast: Logos, head shots, and WLSSD facilities.