Countywide local law enforcement agencies — including the Sequim Police Department, Clallam County Sheriff’s Office and Port Angeles Police Department — are participating in the Nationwide Prescription Take-Back Day sponsored by the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration this week.

Individuals can drop off expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs for destruction from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, April 27, at the Sequim Police Department, 152 W. Cedar St. Or drop off drugs between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the main parking lot of the Clallam County Courthouse, 223 E. Fourth St., Port Angeles.

In Sequim, drugs also may be dropped off anytime during regular office hours Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. In Port Angeles, unwanted drugs and medications may be dropped off at the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office in the county courthouse during regular business hours (8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday, except for holidays).

The service is free and anonymous with no questions asked. The collection service includes both controlled and non-controlled prescription drugs as well as over-the-counter medications. No questions will be asked and individuals will not be asked for their identification.

Local law enforcement also will accept illegal drugs for destruction; syringes and medical waste, however, will not be accepted, because of potential hazards posed by blood-borne pathogens.

Prescription drug abuse is the fastest-growing drug problem in the nation, local law enforcement officials say. Individuals are reminded to not flush prescription drugs down the toilet or sink drain unless the label or accompanying patient information specifically instructs users to do so. Unused, expired and unneeded medicines can be a serious danger to those living in the residence, officials say, particularly for young children and pets, and that such drugs and medications can be stolen, misused and abused by others.

For more information, call the Sequim Police Department during business hours at 360-683-7227.