In collaboration with the US Drug Enforcement Agency, Barrington Police and Barrington’s prevention coalition will collect unwanted medications on Saturday, October 29th from 10am-2pm at the Police Department at 100 Federal Road. It is part of a nationwide effort to rid communities of excess prescription and over the counter medications. Additionally, unwanted vaping devices without batteries will be accepted. Free lock bags will be available at the event to help secure home medications.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines in the home are highly susceptible to diversion and misuse. Rates of prescription drug misuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. RI is experiencing an alarming increase since the pandemic began, with over 435 lives lost in 2021, due to prescription medications and illicit drugs. RI is also seeing suicide attempts by children using over the counter medications such as ibuprofen, antihistamines, and acetaminophen.
Residents can practice Count it, Lock It, Drop It – keep track of the number of pills for medications kept in the home, lock up medications and firearms, and drop off any unwanted medications – prescription and over the counter - to a local drop box or drug take back event. In addition, naloxone, the overdose reversal drug available at all pharmacies, should be kept available in any home where opioid medications or illicit drugs are used. Visit the BAY Team’s YouTube channel to learn how to access and use this vital medication.
In addition to participating in National Prescription Drug Take Back, Barrington has a permanent drug disposal box located at the Public Safety Complex on Federal Road. Here, residents can dispose of unwanted medications any day, any time. No needles or liquids are accepted. The box was placed there by the BAY Team in 2012 as part of its efforts to reduce excess medications. Since that time, over 3000 pounds have been collected. Drop off boxes are also available at many local pharmacies.
Barrington’s prevention coalition is recognized nationally for its success in lowering youth prescription drug abuse. The coalition has a mission to promote a safe and healthy Barrington through communication and collaboration to prevent and decrease substance abuse. For more information about how you can help, please visit www.thebayteam.org.
