An important strategy towards prevention is to limit the supply of substances available to be abused by individuals in the community. Through a partnership between the Benton County Sheriff Department and the Above The Influence Coalition a permanent prescription drop box has been provide for the residents of Benton to safely dispose of their unused and/or expired prescription medications. This drop box was placed at the County Sheriff’s office and is accessible 24 hours a day.

Since being installed in September the drop box has collected 41 pounds of prescription medications that were disposed of by Benton County residents. This is a tremendous response and an encouraging step in reducing the possibility of medications being abused by limiting what is accessible. One of the most common ways that prescription medication is attained is through individuals stealing them from the homes of family members or friends for personal use or for the purpose of selling them. As Benton County residents continue to take advantage of this drop box the chances for the misuse and/or abuse of prescription medications will continue to be reduced.

Another steps individuals can take to protect their medications in addition to proper disposal are to regularly count their medications so they are aware immediately if any are missing. Also, be sure to keep all medications in a secure location by either having them in a locked cabinet or within a lockbox. Taking this important step will eliminate the ability of individuals taking medications from the bathroom medicine cabinet or other easily accessible locations that are commonly used for storage.