MURPHYSBORO – The Jackson County Health Department invites area residents to participate in a drug take back and confidential document shredding event Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon at the health department located at 415 Health Department Road in Murphysboro.
To participate in the event, residents can register at www.jchdonline.org or call 618-684-3143 ext. 128 to schedule an appointment drop-off time.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office will be on-site to provide safe and secure disposal of medications. Participants will be able to drop-off prescription and over-the-counter medications (pills, creams, and patches) for disposal. Items not accepted include liquids, needles, and inhalers. This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. Proper disposal of medications through this event reduces environmental and health hazards and increases safety in the home.
START workshop will be on-site to collect confidential documents to be shredded at their secure facility. There will be no on-site shredding at this event, only secure pick-up of documents. There is a limit of two boxes per participant. Examples of paper items that residents can bring for shredding include bank statements, medical and insurance forms, personal files, old tax forms, and receipts. Paper clips and staples are acceptable, but binders, binder clips, magazines and junk mail are not acceptable. Proper management of such documents helps prevent identity theft.
Flu shots and colorectal cancer screening kits will also be available in the front building. No appointment is necessary and curbside service is available. Most insurances are accepted. For more information on flu shots or colorectal screening kits, call 618-684-3143, ext. 150.
This is a rain-or-shine event. Items from businesses, schools, governments, and other large generators will not be accepted. Assistance will be available to those needing help removing items from their vehicle. The event is sponsored by Jackson County Health Department and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
For event information call 618-684-3143, ext. 128 or visit www.jchdonline.org.
