Residents can get rid of their expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs on Saturday, Oct. 23, during the Lake Charles Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration's “DEA National Take Back Day.”

Medications will be collected 10 a.m-2 p.m. on the south side of the Lake Charles Civic Center, 900 Lakeshore Drive.

Those participating in the program will remain anonymous.

The project aims to promote public safety since medicines that sit in cabinets contribute to accidental poisonings and overdoses. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health said the majority of misused and abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends. In addition, disposing of unused medicines by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash poses serious safety and health hazards.

Controlled substances that require a prescription and over-the-counter drugs will be collected. Items such as as syringes, intravenous solutions, injectables, patches and illegal drugs (such marijuana or methamphetamines) will not be accepted.

For information, call LCPD at 337-491-1456 ext. 5250.