Special to IFN

RALEIGH — The N.C. Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and Safe Kids NC are once again leading the charge in medication safety with the annual Operation Medicine Drop campaign. Held during National Poison Prevention Week (March 16-22), this initiative provides North Carolinians with a safe and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired medications.

With opioid-related deaths accounting for nearly 80% of drug-related fatalities in the state, Operation Medicine Drop plays a vital role in preventing medication misuse, accidental poisonings, and environmental contamination. Since its launch in 2010, the program has safely disposed of over 422 million pills through permanent drop boxes and community take-back events across North Carolina.

“Every day, we lose too many lives to drug overdoses, but we can all take simple steps to help prevent these tragedies,” said State Fire Marshal and Safe Kids NC Chair Brian Taylor. “Through Operation Medicine Drop, we’re encouraging communities to take action by providing a safe way to dispose of medications, reducing access to potentially dangerous drugs, and raising awareness about the importance of medication safety.”

OSFM, Safe Kids NC, and law enforcement partners will host free disposal events at various locations throughout the state during National Poison Prevention Week. Residents are encouraged to bring their unused or expired prescription and over-the-counter medications for safe disposal. Additionally, North Carolinians can access permanent drop box locations available year-round to ensure continued safe disposal.

By participating in Operation Medicine Drop, residents can help prevent accidental poisonings, substance misuse, and environmental damage caused by improper medication disposal.

LEARN MORE

For more information on drop-off locations and upcoming events, visit Operation Medicine Drop.