The Lawrence-Scioto County Solid Waste Management District in conjunction with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office is hosting its second annual Drug Take Back Day later this month.

During the event, which is scheduled 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 26, people will be able to take unwanted medications, needles and syringes and utensils to the drop off location at the Ironton Hills Plaza for disposal.

“Often times people’s doctors will change medication on them or people will decide they don’t want to take it any more,” said Dan Palmer district coordinator of the LSCSWMD. “When that happens they need a place to get rid of their pills and dispose of the pills safely.”

Palmer stressed that while improperly disposing of medication can have adverse affects on the environment, this event can also enhance personal safety.

“Pain pills are a powerful thing,” Palmer said. “We have seen in this area how addictive they can be and the lengths that people will go to get them. Sadly, if it’s known you’re on medication then you can be a target for theft by addicts looking for a fix.”

Last year during the event 50 pounds of pills were collected along with 25 pounds of sharps and syringes. To comply with the Drug Enforcement Administration regulations the LSCSWMD works closely with the sheriff’s office to get rid of the pills as well as working with Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital’s Ironton Urgent Care who disposes of the needles.

“We couldn’t do this without the help of the Sheriff (Jeff) Lawless and his department,” Palmer said. “According to DEA laws we have to have law enforcement seize the medication and work on getting rid of it. We can’t take it ourselves. But, Lawless and his department have been so wonderful in working with us on this and other things we do.”