Village joins partnership to dispose of unused drugs

The Forest Park Police Department has joined the Cook County Sheriff’s Prescription Drug Take Back Program, which is co-sponsored by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. Residents looking to dispose of excess and expired prescription and over-the-counter medications can bring them to the police department at 517 Desplaines Ave. 

The dispatcher/desk personnel will take the unwanted medications and safely deposit them in a secure container provided by the Cook County Sheriff’s Department. 

The Forest Park Village Council unanimously approved this program at the Aug. 8, 2016 council meeting, recognizing the fact that medications should not be flushed down the toilet or thrown out in the trash. Proper disposal can prevent environmental hazards and reduces the possibility of accidental overdoses. 

All residents are encouraged to take advantage of this free 24-hour service. The police department will not accept needles, loose and liquid pharmaceuticals. 

For more information, please contact the Forest Park Police Department at 708-366-2425.

-— Staff