Collection program addresses growing problem of prescription drug abuse & concerns about improperly discarded medicines harming the environment.
The Rahway Police Department is implementing a free medicine-collection program for Rahway residents to safely dispose of unwanted, expired or unused medicines. The collection site box provided by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs allows the drop off of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as pet medicines. Medicines from households are accepted 24 hours per day, 365 days a year at the Rahway Police Department lobby located at 1 City Hall Plaza Rahway ,NJ 07065.
“The drop-off program is a free, anonymous, no-questions-asked initiative that prevents drug abuse and theft by ridding our homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs and medicines.” said Rahway Police Chief John M. Rodger.
“Unused medicine left in the home poses health and safety threats, and improperly disposed of medicines can end up in our water system and streams, and harm wildlife”, said Rahway Mayor Samson Steinman. “This year-round collection program helps prevent crime and protects the environment”, the Mayor added.
“Most teens who abuse prescription drugs get them from family and friends, straight from their home medicine cabinet.” according to Rahway Municipal Alliance Coordinator President Andrea Zapcic. “Painkillers, depressants, stimulants, and over-the-counter cough medicines are the medicines most often abused. These are the most important drugs to remove from your home if they are unwanted, expired or unused.” Ms. Zapcic added.
According to a 2011 National survey on drug use and health, more than seven million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs. Nationally, every day approximately 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time, according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America.
Please keep medicines in their original container when utilizing the drop-box. If possible, please cross out any personal information on the prescription bottle, and place the bottle in a clear plastic baggie. Please note that the drop-off site is for individuals only. No medicines will be accepted from businesses, healthcare facilities, pharmacies, medical offices, or veterinary clinics. The drop box cannot accept syringes.
If you need additional information, please visit the Project Medicine Drop website at www.nj.gov/oag/ca/meddrop. The website is loaded with information on the best ways to dispose of unused medications, and ideas on how to safely store medications within the home.
For more information on the City of Rahway Medicine Project Program please contact Detective William Eicholz at (732) 827-2079 or weicholz@rahwaypolice.com
On March 12, 2015, the Rahway Police Department collected over 100 pounds of prescription medication, which will be burned at the Covanta Incinerator as part of the on-going medicine drop program.