On Saturday, April 22, El Paso County Public Health’s (EPCPH) Fountain Valley Communities That Care (FV-CTC) is partnering with Fountain Police Department and Security Fire Department to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Drug Take Back Day, which provides residents with the opportunity to safely dispose of unused or expired prescription medications. Stop by the Pikes Peak Library District – Fountain Branch or Security Fire Station 1 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The simple step of clearing out expired and unused prescription medications helps make our homes safer, aids in preventing drug addiction and can help save lives.

“The Fountain Valley Communities That Care began hosting Drug Take Back Days at the Fountain Library last year and it’s been a huge success,” EPCPH Youth Substance Use Prevention Planner Becca Barnhart said. “Last year, we collected more than 270 pounds of unused or expired prescription medications, preventing those drugs from falling into the wrong hands. This is such a simple step that we can take to protect our youth and our communities from drug addiction, and we are hoping that even more people come to our April 22 event. We’re excited to offer two locations this year — the Pikes Peak Library District’s Fountain Branch and the Security Fire Station 1.”

Preparing for Drug Take Back Day April 2023

If you’re planning on participating in DEA Drug Take Back Day on April 22, consider the following tips to help you prepare:

• Locate a collection site near you

• Gather your unused or expired prescription drugs

• Allowed: All unused and expired over the counter and prescription medications (solid or liquid) in consumer containers. Vape products (battery MUST be removed).
• Not Allowed: Intravenous solutions, injectables, and syringes will not be accepted due to blood-borne pathogens. Marijuana and illicit substances such as methamphetamines are not a part of this initiative and should not be placed in collection containers.

• Follow the instructions at the collection site: Upon arrival, follow the instructions of staff and volunteers. They will guide you on how to deposit your prescription drugs in designated containers safely.
• Safely transport prescription drugs: Remember to put all medications in a sealed plastic bag or leave prescription medication in their existing containers and tightly sealed.

Can’t make it to Drug Take Back Day? Click here to locate an authorized collector in your area.