The Bensenville Police Department is participating in the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. The event aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.

The National Prescription Drug Take-Back addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are at alarming rates as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that many abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends from home medicine cabinets. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medicine. They often flush them down the toilet or throw them away. Both of these options cause potential safety and health hazards.

The Bensenville Police Department supports the mission of the DEA National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. Citizen are encouraged to bring their unwanted prescription pills to the Police Department, located at 345 E Green St. on April 30, 2016 between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM. Items which will be accepted include: unwanted, unneeded or expired prescription and over-the-counter medications. Prohibited items include liquids, needles and illegal drugs.

Additional information and collection sites can be located through the US Department of Justice and Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Diversion Control at www.dea.gov.