ST. PARIS – On Saturday, the JSP Joint Fire District in collaboration with the Champaign County Prosecutor’s Office, Champaign County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Paris Police Department will provide the public with another opportunity to safely dispose of unused, dangerous and expired or unwanted prescription drugs.

The service is free and anonymous — no questions asked.

This event is for residential/household medications only. Prescription medication and over the counter medication will be accepted. Medications will only be accepted noon to 4 p.m.

State law (effective 10/24/2014) prohibits the collection of radiopharmaceuticals, needles, syringes or lancets.

Why have a drug take-back day?

Authorities say such “drug take-back” programs lessen drug abuse/misuse and water pollution.

Facts to consider:

*Every day, nearly 2,500 teenagers use prescription drugs to get high for the first time.

*Ninety-six percent of unintentional deaths in Ohio are from drugs and medications.

*In Ohio, more people die from unintentional medication poisoning than from motor vehicle accidents.

*Older people are prone to accidental poisoning.

*Ohio’s rates of drug abuse and misuse are higher than the U.S. rate.

*A vast array of pharmaceuticals — including antibiotics, anticonvulsants, mood stabilizers, hormones, acetaminophen, ibuprofen — have been found in drinking water supplies of at least 41 million Americans.

*Pharmaceuticals permeate water tables deep underground.

Family activities

The drug take back initiative coincides with the JSP Joint Fire District’s Safety Day and is being held at the JSP Joint Fire District at 403 W. Main St., St. Paris. Anyone in the area is welcome to take their prescription medication to this drop-off location.

Families are encouraged to attend the event. There will be fire trucks, tractors and dump trucks on display along with CareFlight. The Urbana Fire Division Fire Safety House will also be on display. Additionally, the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office will provide Ident-a-Kid fingerprinting for children. Free hot dogs and cookies will be provided. There will be a foam pit with lots of water.