Ferndale Police To Offer Drug Disposal Service

Starting in February, Ferndale Police will help homebound city residents get rid of unwanted prescription drugs as part of a new program called Prescription Drug Disposal Squared (PD2). The program is part of a new partnership between the police department, and the Alliance of Coalitions for Healthy Communities (ACHC).

Opioid overdoses killed 165 Oakland County residents in 2016, according to the county health division. With over 743,969 opioid prescriptions filled in the County in 2016, there were nearly 6,000 scripts per 10,000 residents. “Prescription Opioids pose a lethal threat when misused. We recognize everyone doesn’t have the ability to drop-off their unused and expired meds to a disposal drop box. This program provides a safe alternative to dispose of meds,” said Minou Jones, Program Manager for the ACHC Greater Urban Community Coalition Initiative.

“This is about meeting the needs of our residents to help save lives,” explained Sergeant Baron Brown, Ferndale Police Department Community Engagement Officer.

With PD2, Ferndale Police officers will come to the resident’s home, and use a Deterra Disposal kit to destroy unwanted or expired prescription drugs on the spot. The ACHC is providing the kits to police, along with prescription drug prevention tool-kits officers can leave with the residents after disposing of medications.

Homebound residents who want assistance disposing of medications, or to know more about the program can call the Ferndale Police Department at (248) 541-3650.

Image via Shutterstock.