Hamilton County Coalition Leads Effort to Safely Dispose of Unused Medications This Saturday

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — This Saturday, the Hamilton County Coalition is giving local residents an easy and safe way to clean out their medicine cabinets as part of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

The event, held in partnership with local law enforcement and Tennessee Water, aims not only to collect unused or expired medications, but also to raise awareness about the risks of keeping them at home. Organizers say that improper storage or disposal of prescription drugs can lead to accidental misuse, addiction, or environmental harm.

“Some people might flush it or throw it into the trash, which isn’t the greatest option,” said Hannah Dalton with the Hamilton County Coalition. “It can get into the water and the landfill, and that affects the water and the animals. We partner with Tennessee Water to emphasize how it can get into our water streams.”

Last year, the coalition collected over 2,000 pounds of medications from local homes, a testament to both the community’s participation and the need for proper disposal methods.

Drop-off sites will be available throughout Hamilton County this Saturday, no questions asked. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to safely dispose of their medications and help protect their families, neighbors, and environment.