💊 Medication Safety & Storage

✅ Why Medication Safety Matters:

• Overdoses are the second leading method of suicide among veterans and youth.

• Medications — even over-the-counter — can become dangerous in the wrong hands.

• Locking up prescriptions helps prevent misuse, accidents, and emotional decisions made in vulnerable moments.

🔐 Safety Starts Here:

✅ Store medications in a locked box or cabinet, out of sight and reach
✅ Monitor expiration dates and dispose of unused medications properly
✅ Keep a running inventory of what’s in your home
✅ Don’t share prescriptions with others — even family
✅ Use blister packs or weekly organizers for secure access if needed

🛠️ Get Free Lock Boxes or Dispose Safely:

Contact your local pharmacy, police department, or VA Medical Center for:

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• Free or discounted medication lock boxes

• Drug Take Back Day drop-off info

• Year-round safe disposal programs

📄 Learn More About Safe Medication Storage in Kentucky

Medication safety starts at home — and right here in Lexington and across Kentucky, we’re working together to prevent accidental overdoses, misuse, and crisis-related access.

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Visit Up & Away — a national resource endorsed by the CDC — to learn simple, effective strategies for Kentucky families, caregivers, and veterans to:

• Safely store medications out of sight and reach

• Talk with loved ones about responsible use

• Create safer home environments for kids, teens, and older adults

• Download helpful tip sheets and reminder checklists

🎯 Tip for Lexington Residents:
 

Check with UK Healthcare Pharmacies, Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, or your local VA clinic for access to Lock boxes, Safe disposal bags, and Take Back Day events near you.

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🔗 Explore now: www.upandaway.org