UPDATE: The Bainbridge Island Police Departments and Rite Aid store in BI are not part of Saturday’s program, in a correction from the Review’s previous story from the state Health Care Authority. However, Rite Aid, as always, does have a bin where people can drop off such medicines. To find the location nearest you go to https://med-project.org/locations/washington/convenient-locations/ (but be sure to call first to make sure).

People around the state will be able to dispose of unused medications and vaping products at drug take-back events from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 24 at sites hosted by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vape pens and other e-cigarette devices will be accepted. Medications can remain in their original containers and labels do not need to be removed, sponsors said.

This take-back event helps support three statewide campaigns from the state Health Care Authority: Starts with One, Tribal Opioid Solutions and Medication Education and Disposal. These campaigns inform and educate young adults, their parents and older adults about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and the importance of safe storage, use and disposal, particularly for opioids, Kennedy Soileau of HCA said.

About 75 percent of opioid misuse starts with people using medication not prescribed for them, usually taken from a friend or family member, Soileau said. “Participating in these take-back events is one way people can help tackle the opioid crisis and protect loved ones,” said Dr. Charissa Fotinos, HCA deputy chief medical officer.

Community kiosk dropoff sites allow patients to bring expired or unwanted medicines to locations for disposal. Residents may also go to selected locations to request a mail-back package for expired or unwanted medicines. Some items will not be accepted: herbal remedies, vitamins, supplements, cosmetics, other personal care products, medical devices, illicit drugs, sharps and pet pesticide products.