Arrowhead High School hosts pill drop: "I was excited to contribute to our community"

HARTLAND -- A group of students are doing their part to reduce the risks associated with medication disposal with an all-day event. It's called a "Pill Drop," and it plays an important role in protecting both people and the places they live.

On Friday, May 13th, students from Arrowhead Union High School were hustling to help people put unwanted pills in their proper place during the 6th annual Pill Drop.

As part of a class assignment, students organize and advertise the event in an effort to give people in the Hartland community a convenient way to dispose of their unwanted prescription and non-prescription medications.

One purpose of the pill drop involves reducing the potential for prescription drug abuse.

"Any time you're dealing with drug issues, baby steps help in the big picture of things," said Hartland Police Chief Robert Rosch.

Meanwhile, the collection effort also helps alleviate environmental concerns.

"I thought it was kind of an awesome idea -- help educate students on, you know, the problems that exist with prescription drug abuse, or it going into the environment improperly," said Annette Lemieux, retired teacher and Pill Drop Advisor.

Prescription medications, sprays and inhalers are among the accepted items.

In 2015, more than 400 pounds of unwanted medications were collected. The students hope to top that total this year.

"I was excited to contribute to our community," said Sonja Tomasicyk-, Arrowhead H.S. junior.