LaPorte Police Department offers free medication disposal

Area residents with unwanted or expired pills can drop them off for safe disposal in LaPorte County. Safely disposing of pills keeps them out of landfills and local water supplies and also keeps youth from getting their hands on potentially harmful medications. Surveys find teens abuse prescription drugs more than any illicit street drug except marijuana. Youngsters frequently get pills from friends and family members.

Pills can be dropped off at the LaPorte Police Department, 1206 Michigan Ave.; the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, 809 State St.; and the Michigan City Police Department at 102 W. 2nd St.

The agencies ask that only pills be brought in and left in the drop boxes. The best way to bring in the pills is in zip-type plastic bags or in the original prescription containers, with the patient’s name on the label removed.

No liquids or sharps of any kind will be accepted. It is recommended that unwanted liquid medication be disposed of by mixing it with kitty litter, sawdust or flour and then disposing of it in the trash.