Safe Disposal and Storage

Responsible storage of substances like marijuana, alcohol, prescription medications, and vaping products within the home is critical to keeping the youth in our community safe. Here are some important steps you can take to prevent your children (and pets!) from accessing these substances:

Secure Storage: Store all substances in locked cabinets, safes, or other secure containers. Make sure the keys or combinations are kept out of reach from youth.
Monitor Access: Keep track of quantities, regularly check your inventory (including in your fridge) and be aware of anything missing.
Open Communication: Talk with your youth about the risks associated with substance abuse, set clear boundaries, and reinforce your expectations regarding their use.
Dispose of Medications: Get rid of any unused or expired medications (medications can be anonymously disposed of in the drop box located at the Vernon Police Department).

Vernon Prescription Drug Drop Box location:

Vernon Police Department: 725 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon-Rockville, CT 06066

At the Vernon Police Department, you can anonymously drop off your excess supply of prescription medications in the 24/7 locked drop box located in the lobby. They CANNOT discard needles or other “sharps”, hazardous waste, thermometers, or personal care products (shampoo, soap, etc.).

At Home Disposal Steps:

Do NOT flush medications down the sink or toilet, water quality and wildlife are both affected.
Remove personal information from the container by removing the label or using a permanent marker
Mix medication with hot water to first dissolve them, then mix with salt, sawdust, used coffee grounds, or cat litter.
After mixing, place inside an opaque plastic container such as a laundry detergent bottle and tape shut.
Throw out the container in your trash can. Do NOT put the container in your recycling bin.