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Residents of Carter County are being urged to clean out their medicine cabinets regularly to combat substance abuse and accidental overdoses in the community.

The Carter County Drug Prevention (CCDP) initiative is spearheading efforts to collect unused and expired prescription medications for proper disposal. Leftover medications pose a significant danger to the community, as they can be misused or accidentally ingested.

To support this cause, CCDP is collaborating with the Elizabethton River Riders and the Elizabethton High School baseball team. They will be collecting medications at the upcoming EHS vs. Johnson County game on April 26 at Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark.

During the event, CCDP will provide free medication lockboxes for individuals who need to secure their medications at home. Additionally, the Sullivan County Anti-drug Coalition will be present to distribute Narcan, a life-saving medication, and provide training on its administration. Bridge to Shore Recovery will offer resource information, and a special giveaway is planned for the first 100 children in attendance.

For those unable to attend the game, the Elizabethton Police Department (EPD) will host a drug take-back event on April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their location. Furthermore, permanent collection boxes are available year-round at EPD, the Carter County Sheriff’s Department, and Walgreens in Elizabethton.

Together, these efforts aim to knock substance abuse out of the park and create a safer, healthier community for all residents of Carter County.