How does the SHC Keep Kids Safe program work?
This program engages the community, creating opportunities to partner with industry and experts in the field of recovery and addiction services, to educate the public about another access point for the abuse and misuse of prescription medications.
What is my role in this effort?
Every person can be a resource for education and prevent inappropriate access to prescription medications. By using these materials, including a public service announcement, literature, and re-sealable plastic bags, you become part of the solution. You are NOT asked to take possession of any medications; rather use this information to educate yourself, your family, and community about proper storage and then disposal of medications once they are no longer wanted or have expired.
Where can I safely dispose of my prescription medication?
To properly dispose of unused medications, place them in a Safe Homes Coalition re-sealable plastic bag, or a ziplock bag if you don’t have one, and bring them to a community-based drug take-back center. To find the nearest one in San Diego County, please click here.
Can’t I just flush them down the toilet or sink?
Follow the disposal directions you received with your medicines or ask your healthcare professional or pharmacist about disposal.
DO NOT flush your prescription medications. These will end up in our waterways and sewage systems cannot remove these medications from water that is released into lakes, rivers, or oceans.
Why REALTORS® and why open houses?
Just as clinicians, law enforcement, and elected officials need to be vigilant in reducing and responding to abuse and misuse, the REALTOR® community can be a powerful ally in addressing this problem as well. REALTORS® are well positioned to educate individuals and clients about this issue and provide guidance to protect the property of their customers.
Is this actually an issue? Are public safety officials seeing this occur in our communities?
Public safety officials are seeing prescription drug abuse rise at an alarming rate, and while we don’t have reliable statistics on instances of this kind of theft, we all recognize that reducing inappropriate access is one more way to address this complex issue.
How can I get involved more?
Safe Homes Coalition is always looking for more volunteers to help spread the word. Please contact us for more information or to find out about our neighborhood walks to educate families about the safe use, storage and disposal of prescription medications.
Help Us Stay Up-to-date!
Know of a newly registered prescription drug drop off location, local event, or other related Boston Area news? Let us know!
Launch a Safe Homes Initiative in Your Community!
The Safe Homes Coalition originally launched in San Diego, CA and we’re always looking for partners to expand the Keep Kids Safe program across the United States. Help your community stay safe!
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Help support the Safe Homes Coalition by making a charitable donation to aid the Boston Area Program.