Big Red Barrel Project To Curb Prescription Drug Abuse, Protect Environment

The public is invited to the Saline Police Department at 9 a.m. Saturday morning for the unveiling of the “Big Red Barrel,” which was built to help prevent prescription drug abuse.

The barrel, which will be located in the Saline Police Department lobby next to the dispatch desk, where it can be monitored at all times, can be used to safely dispose of unused of prescriptions.

“It’s an important thing for the City of Saline,” according to David Rhoads, a member of Saline City Council who is also involved in Parents and Community Together. “People have expired medication around the house. For some people, there is a temptation to use it. And sometimes it can fall into the wrong hands.”
The barrel can be used to dispose of expired drugs or controlled substances such as OxyContin, Vicodin and Percocet.

Rhoads said that former interim Police Chief Mike Lindman worked with the FBI to make the “Red Barrel” happen in Saline.

“The process to legally and safely dispose of drugs is difficult and convoluted,” Rhoads said.

There are also environmental benefits to using the Red Barrel to dispose of drugs. According to the EPA, Studies have shown that pharmaceuticals are present in the nation's bodies of water. Further research suggests that certain drugs may cause ecological harm.

Sponsors of this event include the Saline Police Department, PACT, Saline Area Schools, Bi-County Senior Connections, and Washtenaw Community Health Organization.

The is located at 100 N. Harris St.