STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

Unused prescription drugs will be received from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Hailey Albertsons.

The Hailey Police Department, Men’s Second Chance Living and the Crisis Hotline are banding together with South Central Public Health District for the local Drug Take Back Day collection event.

Other take back locations for those who may be out of town are:

Twin Falls: Fred Meyer Parking Lot (705 Blue Lakes Blvd N)

Community Partners: Treatment and Recovery Center (TARC) and the Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office

Kimberly: Kimberly-Hansen Police Department (242 Highway 30)

Community Partners: Kimberly-Hansen Police Department

Gooding: The Walker Center (605 11th Ave E)

Community Partners: The Walker Center and the Gooding County Sheriff’s Office

Heyburn: Heyburn Police Department (1800 J St)

Community Partners: The Heyburn Police Department.

In 2023, more than 2.5 million controlled substance prescriptions were dispensed in Idaho. In the same year, deadly overdoses in Idaho hit a state record of 386 lives lost.

Drug disposal is one of the most effective ways to prevent potential prescription misuse and/or overdose.

"Proper disposal of unused medications is crucial in reducing the risks of prescription drug misuse and accidental poisoning,” said Taylor Bybee, Senior Health Education Specialist for South Central Public Health District.

“Many people don't realize that keeping expired or unused medications in the home can lead to dangerous situations. By participating in Drug Take Back Day, we can help protect our families, pets, and the environment from the harmful effects of unused prescriptions," said Cody Orchard, SCPHD Senior Health Education Specialist.

All prescription drugs will be accepted, as well as over-the-counter medications, vitamins and veterinary medications. Take Back drop-off locations will also accept vape pens, cartridges or other e-cigarette devices (without the batteries in the device).

Needles will not be accepted.

Those who miss the local Take Back Day can find year-round drop-off locations at odp.idaho.gov/prescription-drug-take-back-program.