Prescription drug abuse is rampant among youth.
In response, the National Prescription Drop-off event continues this week at RCMP detachments across the province by way of prevention.
“The goal is to provide the public with the opportunity to turn over all unwanted prescription medications so they can be safely and properly destroyed,” BC RCMP spokesman Asst. Commissioner Randy Beck.
According to a 2009 study, a fifth of students from Grades 7-12 have used a prescription drug without a doctor's prescription. Often they were stolen, obtained with a fraudulent prescription or bought off the street.
"This program is geared to preventing these medications from getting into the hands of our youth," said Cpl. Len vanNieuwenhuizen of the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment.
That’s why the RCMP in B.C., including the Chilliwack detachment, is supporting the first ever National Prescription Drop Off Day, May 11, and extending that support until May 17.
“RCMP supports this event as an important part of our national drug awareness and prevention strategy," said Beck.
The public is reminded that the B.C. Medications Return Program is available all year long for the public to bring these meds back to pharmacies across the province at no charge, on an ongoing basis. The drop-off of expired or used meds can be done anonymously and there is no obligation to provide personal information or details.
With this week's special initiative, RCMP detachments will ensure medications are disposed of safely, and without harming the environment. Check with their local RCMP detachment for hours and do not leave any outside.
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