Take-Back Day, Saturday, Sept. 25

Wisconsinites can safely dispose of their leftover and unwanted prescription drugs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 25 at one of over 85 collection points throughout the state at part of National Take-Back Day. National Take-Back Day will provide Americans with a safe and effective way for getting prescription drugs out of their homes, where they can pose a risk to children and families.

As chairman of the Special Committee on Aging, Senator Herb Kohl recently held a hearing to highlight the health and safety risks associated with both improper disposal and the lack of disposal options for consumers. Having leftover drugs around the house is a significant safety risk and, in some cases, fosters prescription drug abuse and fuels black market trade. However, throwing drugs away in the home or flushing them down the toilet can result in water contamination. A 2002 U.S. Geological Survey study of 139 bodies of water in 30 states found that over 80 percent of the water samples were contaminated by personal care products, including prescription drugs.

To find a collection site near you, go to www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/takeback/ and enter your zip code or city and state.