SOUTH SIOUX CITY, Neb. -- The South Sioux City Police Department is one of many law enforcement agencies taking part in the DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day across the state of Nebraska Saturday.

The day is recognized to raise awareness to combat the abuse of prescription drugs.

Nebraskans will be able to turn in unused, expired, or unwanted prescription drugs at participating locations.

“We just want to assist in raising that awareness and giving our community members a responsible and convenient way to dispose of those medications,” said South Sioux City Police Lt. Jeanette McFee.

SSCPD has participated in the bi-annual TakeBack since its inception. 

In October, the department collected close to 50 pounds of medications.

McFee said the SSCPD doesn’t see many crimes or deaths related to opioids or prescription drugs, but recognizes that disposing of them can lead to safer circumstances.

“It does help in reducing any kind of overuse of prescription drugs, specifically opioid use,” she said. “If they keep their prescriptions, if they can get rid of some of that it reduces any kinds of thefts, burglaries.”

The department will be collecting drugs using their disposal bin located at the night entrance.

Needles, liquids, and inhalers will not be collected.

The disposal bin is available 365 days a year, so if people can’t make it Saturday there is no need to fret.

To see where the closest location near you is participating, click here