HERSHEY, PA, Oct. 17, 2013 -- National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day will take place on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013. The program, coordinated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), will give the public an opportunity to help keep the nation's water resources clean, preserve the environment and protect public health.
Pennsylvania American Water is encouraging customers to dispose of unused medications at local collection sites. "We urge people to take advantage of the drug take-back events, because they prevent pharmaceutical products from being flushed down the toilet or thrown in the trash," said Paul A. Zielinski, senior director of water quality and environmental compliance, Pennsylvania American Water. "Both of those options pose potential hazards to our environment."
Prescription drugs collected at the free take-back events are disposed of in an environmentally-safe manner, keeping the medications out of local landfills and watersheds. Removing drugs from the home also helps prevent pill theft and abuse.
To find a nearby collection site, visit www.dea.gov and click on the "Got Drugs: National Prescription Take-Back Day" banner. Medications should be kept in their original containers with labels intact.
About Pennsylvania American Water
Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (AWK), is the largest water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.2 million people. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs approximately 6,700 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 14 million people in more than 30 states and parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.
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