BELLOWS FALLS — The 18th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day occurred on Oct. 26 and resulted in 882,919 pounds, or 441.5 tons, of unused medication collected nationally, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration website.
Vermont took in 6,734 pounds of the overall total, which was the largest amount collected in the state since the campaign started.
Windham County law enforcement participation included the Vermont State Police, Bellows Falls Police Department, Brattleboro Police Department, Dover Police Department, Wilmington Police Department, and the Windham County Sheriff's Department.
They collected a total of 14 boxes, or 325.75 pounds, of medication. October's Take Back Day was updated to include collection of e-cigarette and vaping devices.
Take Back Day occurs twice a year and provides a safe alternative for getting rid of unwanted medications. The events are free and anonymous, with permanent collection sites available year round in Windham County and throughout Vermont.
To learn more or to locate a collection site, visit healthvermont.gov.