Knox County will be participating in the DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 29. 

Knox Substance Abuse Action Team (KSAAT), in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, is coordinating this collection day for residents to dispose of their expired, unused or unwanted medications. The disposal day will also include the collection of unwanted syringes. 

Drop-off locations in Knox County include Knox Public Health, Knox Community Hospital Medical Pavilion at Conway’s Eastside Pharmacy, Danville Police Department, Centerburg Foster’s Pharmacy, and the Fredericktown Police Department.

The DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day reflects the commitment to safety and health, encouraging the public to remove unneeded medications from their homes as a measure of preventing medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting. 

If unable to attend the event on Oct. 29, residents can request a free Deterra Drug Deactivation pouch from Knox Public Health. These pouches allow for the safe destruction of medications, liquids and patches at home. 

Additionally, there are several drop boxes located in Knox County for year-round disposal. These locations include the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, Fredericktown Police Department, Danville Police Department, Mount Vernon Police Department, Rite-Aid (Mount Vernon) and CVS (Prescription medicine only at CVS). These drop boxes are anonymous; however, do not put liquids, inhalers, sharps or illegal substances in the drop boxes. 

To learn more about KSAAT or to get involved, visit ksaat.org or email ksaat2011@gmail.com.