Residents can turn in unused or expired medications for safe disposal on Oct. 13.

Madison Police Department is one of the organizations participating in the “Got Drugs? Take-Back Initiative.” Residents can drop off unused or expired medications at the police department in City Hall at 100 Hughes Road from 9 a.m. to noon on Oct. 13.

The Take-Back Initiative is a community, collaborative effort. Organizations working together for this project are Partnership for a Drug-Free Community, City of Huntsville, Huntsville City Police, Madison City Police Madison County Sheriff’s Department, Operation Green Team, Solid Waste Disposal Authority, Covanta Huntsville and XMed.

These groups invite individuals to safely dispose of pills, capsules and tablets that are past the expiration date or no longer taken by a patient.

Since the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) started the initiative, 5,659 take-back sites have been available in all 50 states and U.S. territories. When Take-Back Initiative days are complete nationwide, the DEA and its state, local, and tribal law enforcement and community partners have removed more 1.5 million pounds or 774 tons of medication from circulation.

Nationally, teenage prescription drug abuse is rapidly increasing. A family medicine cabinet can become a teenager’s best supplier, according to police department reports.

In addition, residents are protecting the environment during the Take-Back Initiative. Collection programs greatly reduce the chance of medicines entering city and county water supplies.

Other locations in Madison County also are collecting unused prescription drugs. In Huntsville, individuals can go by the Jaycees’ building at 2180 Airport Road on Oct. 13 from 9 a.m. to noon. In Madison County, residents can visit Hazel Green where volunteers will collect prescriptions at Flint River Baptist Church at 12945 Hwy. 231 N. from 9 a.m. to noon.

For more information, call the Partnership for a Drug-Free Community at 256-539-7339 or send email to partner@hiwaay.net.