Safety and Disposal Guidance

Safety and Disposal Guidance

Twice a year, at the end of April and October, DCP SAFE staff coordinates National Prescription Drug Take Back Day with local police departments to help community members dispose of unused prescription medications. In addition, nine drop box sites throughout DeKalb County are available year-round for community members to safely dispose of unused medications.

Unused prescription medications can put your family at risk for an accidental poisoning or overdose. Deterra drug disposal pouches are a convenient, safe and environmentally friendly way to dispose of old or unused medications. DCP SAFE has Deterra pouches available at no cost for community members who need them. Connect with us at community events or contact us for more information.

DeKalb County residents may dispose of needles in sharps containers or in heavy-duty plastic bottles with a strong lid, such as a detergent bottle secured with duct tape. Sharps containers can be purchased at DeKalb County Health Department. For more information on the cost of disposal, please call 815.748.2408.

You may also ask your pharmacy, clinic, hospital or health department to take needles back, though they may charge a fee for this service. If you opt to use sharps containers, inform your waste disposal provider that it will be placed with your trash.

For more information, visit safeneedledisposal.org.