Safe Kids Riley County
Riley County launched the “Take the Pledge to Lock Your Meds” educational campaign in February. This is an initiative aimed at raising awareness about the importance of securing prescription medications to prevent misuse, addiction, and accidental poisoning.
Every year, millions of medications fall into the wrong hands, contributing to the growing crisis of prescription drug misuse, particularly among youth. According to national statistics, nearly 50% of people who misuse prescription drugs obtain them from family or friends, often from an unsecured medicine cabinet. This campaign encourages individuals and families to take simple yet effective steps in safeguarding their medications.
“We all have a role to play in preventing medication misuse,” said Shanika Rose, community health educator with Riley County Health Department. “By taking the pledge to lock up prescription drugs, we can protect our loved ones and prevent potential harm.”
So far, more than 100 local residents have taken the pledge.
Key Features of the Campaign:
- Take the Pledge: Community members are invited to commit to locking up their medications by taking the pledge at www.rileycountyks.gov/takethepledge
- Educational Resources: Information is being provided on safe medication storage and the risks of misuse
- Medication Lock Box/ Lock Bag Distribution: Free medication lock boxes or bags will be available to community members who take the pledge to lock their meds (while supplies last)
“We encourage every Riley County resident to take this step in protecting their families and community,” added Rose. “Together, we can reduce the risk of prescription drug misuse and make our community safer.”
For more information about the “Take the Pledge to Lock Your Meds” campaign and resources for fentanyl and opioid awareness in the community, please contact the Riley County community health education team at 785-776-4779 ext. 7650 or visit the Riley County website at www.rileycountyks.gov/fentanyl
