Residents Can Drop Off Unwanted Drugs in Long Branch

By Christopher Sheldon

The Long Branch is participating in a nationwide initiative that will people to get rid of their expired or unwanted medication.

Residents can get rid of their medication on Saturday Oct. 26 at the Long Branch Senior Center, 85 Second Ave., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"Prescription drug abuse is one of the nation's fastest growing drug problems and this program helps prevent more drugs from reaching our kids," the Long Branch Police state on Facebook. "So far, this program has collected over 84,000 pounds of medications in (New Jersey) alone."

Police have also outlined the following guidelines for the DEA-sponsored program:

• The individual may dispose of medication either in its original container or by removing medication from its container and disposing directly into the drug disposal box. If the original container is submitted, the individual should be encouraged to remove the prescription label if it contains any personal identifying information.

• Liquid products, such as cough medicine, should remain sealed in their original container. The depositor should ensure that the cap is tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

• Syringes and other sharp instruments should not be accepted.

For more local drop-off sites, click here.