South Lake Tahoe's drug disposal bin deemed successful

It may be a simple metal box attached to the wall of the South Lake Tahoe Police station, but what it does can change, or even save, lives.

The South Tahoe Drug Free Coalition bought the box and had it installed in July of this year. Since then it has been emptied three times according to Josh Adler of the SLTPD.

"It has been very successful," said Melody Easton, Coalition Coordinator.

"While many residents have participated in the City's biannual drug take-back days, everyone can now dispose of their prescription drugs safely throughout the year," said Police Chief Brian Uhler when the box was placed. "We want to assure residents that if they drop off prescription drugs, we will accept them with no questions asked."

Prescription drugs can be dropped off in the lobby of the police station Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., or after hours by pressing the buzzer outside their front door. No questions asked. They are located at 1352 Johnson Blvd

Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that some methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash — both pose potential safety and health hazards.

The Coalition is now looking for a location for another take back box.

Twice a year there are two official Drug Take Back Days in South Lake Tahoe. The next one will be held on Saturday, September 27. The last one held in April netted over 50 pounds of pills.