Two Drug Disposal Locations Will Be Available On Saturday

Potter County will be participating in National Take-Back Drugs Day, which allows residents to bring old, unused prescription medication to a central location for legal and appropriate disposal. It will be held on Saturday, April 30, at two locations — the state police barracks on Denton Hill and the Coudersport Borough Office — from 10 am to 2 pm. There is no cost for this service, which is part of a national day to recognize the importance of keeping unused medication out of the hands of children and drug dealers, and to protect the environment.

“This type of event has been long overdue in Potter County, given the growing problem with the abuse and illegal sale of prescription medications,” said District Attorney Andy Watson. “Many medications that are recovered during arrests are narcotic medications which pose a significant health risk and possibility of overdose among teenagers.  There has been a growing trend of teenagers and young adults abusing and selling prescription medication that they find in their parents’, grandparents’, or even friends’ medicine cabinets. ”

Many people are faced with being unable to dispose of old, unused prescription medication, as trying to dispose of these items presents problems to the environment and, potentially, healthy drinking water. Anyone having questions, including how to dispose of these medications properly, should District Attorney Watson at 814-274-9450 or State Police Corporal Mike Murray at 814-274-8690.