CONTACT INFORMATION:
14 South Fort Harrison Avenue
Clearwater, Fl 33756
Customer Service (727) 464-4000
E-mail: custsrv@pinellascounty.org

March 11, 2008

Pinellas County, Fla—Pinellas County Utilities reminds customers that proper disposal of medicines can help alleviate the issue of trace amounts of pharmaceuticals that have been detected in some drinking water systems around the country. Although Pinellas County Utilities routinely tests for microbiological and radiological contaminants, inorganic contaminants such as arsenic, and other substances, customers can help reduce the level of pharmaceutical waste being introduced into wastewater systems with a few simple steps. Drugs should NOT be poured down a sink or flushed in the toilet.

1. Contact your physician or pharmacy to see if they have a take-back program.
2. To dispose of old medicines, follow these safety tips:
1. Packaging—Keep the medication in the original container to help identify the contents if they are accidentally ingested.
2. Privacy—Mark out the patient’s name and prescription number.
3. Treating—“Treat” pills by adding water or soda to dissolve them. For liquids, add something inedible such as cat litter, dirt, or cayenne pepper.
4. Sealing—Close the lid and secure with duct or packing tape. Place the bottle(s) inside an opaque (non see-through) container such as a coffee can or plastic laundry bottle. Tape that container closed.
5. Hiding—Hide the container in the trash. Do not place in a recycle bin.

Different rules for hazardous pharmaceutical disposal apply to businesses. Details can be obtained from Solid Waste Operations at 464-7500. Additional information for residents can be found in the A to Z Guide online at: www.pinellascounty.org/utilities/getridofit

Source: www.pinellascounty.org/utilities

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