District of Columbia residents are encouraged to safely dispose of household medications and old prescriptions at drug drop-off sites throughout the city. The 8th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is this Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This national effort aims to safely collect unused and expired medications to prevent improper drug disposal and distribution.

The District Department of Health, Metropolitan Police Department and DC Water support District participation in this nationwide effort. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in conjunction with state and local governments, law enforcement, community, and public health organizations will host collection centers around the region.

The initiative educates the public about proper medication disposal methods and offers a safe way for people to get rid of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted medicines. Collection centers are operated by the DEA, which works with state and local police departments throughout the region to help collect and destroy medications.

"Flushing pharmaceuticals down the drain contributes to the presence of these compounds in our waterways," commented DC Water General Manager George Hawkins. "We are all responsible for contaminants found in water and DC Water encourages all residents to properly dispose of their pharmaceuticals. Please support the Prescription Drug Take Back Day and help us protect regional water resources."

The service is free, anonymous and available for prescription and over-the-counter medications. To find the nearest drop-off location, visit http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html. Residents can also contact the Office of Diversion Control Call Center at 1-800-882-9539 for assistance.

To learn more about DC Water, visit www.dcwater.com.