Representatives from the Cortez Police Department and the Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office will take part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this month.
The goal of the event is to provide a safe and convenient way for citizens to dispose of expired or unused prescription drugs.
Local law enforcement will be at the Cortez Walgreens on April 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to allow locals to safely turn in their prescription medications, per a news release.
Over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs and controlled prescription drugs (Schedule I through Schedule V) will be accepted.
Illegal drugs will not be accepted. Neither will sharps, such as needles, syringes, scalpels and lancets.
Remaining unacceptable items include flammable liquids, medical waste, medical equipment, mercury thermometers or inhalers.
According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 9.7 million people misused prescription pain relievers, 4.9 million people misused prescription stimulants and 5.9 million people misused prescription tranquilizers or sedatives in 2019.
Walgreens in Cortez is at 1671 E. Main St.
anicotera@the-journal.com