Many people don’t realize how they become unwitting drug dealers by leaving a stockpile of old or unneeded prescription medications around the house.

Often times those painkillers and other drugs “disappear” thanks to a teenage son or daughter, friends of teenagers or even visiting grandkids. They can be sold on the street for some pretty quick cash.

That’s why the DEA and other agencies have been organizing “Take Back” days in recent years – not only to collect and dispose of unwanted prescription drugs but to increase awareness on the dangers of leaving these drugs unlocked in the medicine cabinet or in the hall closet.

While these twice-a-year Take Back days have been a huge success – including the one held this past Saturday – kudos to the Fountain Hills Coalition, Town of Fountain Hills and Maricopa County Sheriff’s for coming up with a more permanent disposal solution that can be utilized throughout the year.

A new prescription drug drop-off box has been installed in Town Hall adjacent to the Sheriff’s Office. It will allow residents to dispose of expired, unused and unwanted medication in a safe and easy way on a year-round basis.

Authorities do not recommend disposing of such drugs by throwing them into the garbage or flushing them down the toilet.

We’re confident such a permanent drop box will diminish the supply of prescription drugs in the community and keep our young people safer by lowering the availability of painkillers and other drugs for illegal use.

The drug box is available during normal business hours at Town Hall – Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Here is to a safer community!