News Release
For Immediate Release: April 5, 2011
Contact Person: Diane Lee, PIO, 301-334-7730
Town Hall Meetings About Prescription Drug Abuse Scheduled
The Garrett County Health Department has scheduled a series of Town Hall Meetings to highlight the problem of prescription drug abuse in Garrett County and around the country.
The public is invited to participate in the Town Hall Meetings at the following locations and times:
- April 8 th at Deer Park Community Building from 6-8 pm
- April 11 th at Northern Garrett Rescue Squad in Friendsville from 6-8 pm
- April 15 th at Kitzmiller Fire Hall from 6:30-8 pm
- April 25 th at Southern Garrett Rescue Squad from 6-8
A report issued in March showed that prescription drug abuse in Maryland is rising at an alarming rate. According to a 2009 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration National Survey, more than seven million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs. Each day about 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time, according to Partnership for a Drug Free America.
As a follow up to the Town Meetings, Garrett County agencies are teaming up with the Drug Enforcement Agency on April 30, 2011, to hold Prescription Drug “Take-Back” events throughout Garrett County. Watch for more information on locations and times in your area.
Prescription Drug “Take-Back” events are designed to protect communities and the environment by disposing of expired or unused prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. Proper disposal of these medications eliminates the possibility of potential abuse and environmental contamination.
In addition to the Drug Enforcement Agency, Garrett County 's “Take-Back” events are being sponsored by the Sheriff's Office, Drug Free Communities Coalition, and the Health Department.
For more information about Town Hall Meetings or Prescription Drug “Take-Back” events call the Garrett County Health Department at 301-334-7730 or 301-895-3111.