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"Project Medicine Drop is a natural addition to our commitment to help improve the public safety and quality of life in Ramsey,' Police Chief Bryan Gurney said. "It will encourage our residents to be fully aware of the potential for abuse presented by otherwise beneficial medications."
The box is available around the clock at 25 North Central Avenue.
Covanta Energy, a nationwide operator of energy-from-waste and renewable energy facilities, destroys the dropped-off medications at no cost to taxpayers or to the participating departments.
Before this, most people flushed their unused prescription drugs down the toilet, threw them in the trash, or kept them in the household medicine cabinet. This contaminated the water supply, helped start and feed habits — often for children — and tempted thieves.
The medication can either be disposed of in its original container or be removed and placed in the disposal box.
Liquids should be disposed of in the original container -- with the cap tightly sealed to prevent leakage.
The majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet, authorities warn.
"Project Medicine Drop" is sponsored by more than 100 police departments, sheriff’s offices and State Police barracks in New Jersey.
To see whether your town has one, click below:
Bergen County Project Medicine Drop locations
Passaic County Project Medicine Drop locations
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