Proper disposal of old medication urged

Left over medication not only clutters your cabinet, it can be fatal.

To prevent poison-related deaths or illness, Kenosha County's Division of Health encourages residents to dispose of medication that is unused, unwanted and expired, as this week marks National Poison Prevention Week.

Medicine should be disposed of properly, not in the household trash can.

Medication dropped off at an official collection site prevents water contamination and poison among children, teens or those addicted.

There are six sites in Kenosha County. Over-the-counter, prescription and pet medication, as well as ointments, creams and sprays are accepted at all the sites. Intravenous solutions, injectables, illegal drugs, biohazardous materials or needles are not accepted. Medications must be kept in original packages and in a sealed bag, with personal information crossed off.

A free household medication collection will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 26. The collection is at Pleasant Prairie Police Department, 8600 Green Bay Road, and University of Wisconsin-Parkside Police Department, 900 Wood Road. Drop offs are allowed from households, not businesses.

For more information, contact the Health Division at 605-6700.

Drop off locations in Kenosha County:

University of Wisconsin-Parkside Police Department

900 Wood Road, Tallent Hall

Collection Hours: Anytime

Public Safety Building

1000 55th St.

Collection hours: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday

Pleasant Prairie Police Department

8600 Green Bay Road

Collection hours: Anytime

Salem Town Hall

9814 Antioch Road (Highway 83)

Collection hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday, excluding holidays

Silver Lake Police Department

113 S. First St.

Collection hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, excluding holidays

Twin Lakes Police Department

920 Lance Drive

Collection Hours: Anytime