CARRINGTON, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Foster County Public Health is teaming up with the Carrington Police Department and Foster County Sheriff’s Office for a drug takeback event today.

Robin Simonson is the Prevention Coordinator for Foster County Public Health.

Simonson says nationwide, just under half of those over the age of 12 who misuse pain relievers get them from a friend or relative. She added North Dakota is also seeing a rise in drug overdose deaths.

There are multiple ways to dispose of these medications. The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services recommends a lock, monitor, and takeback method to safely get rid of expired and unwanted medicine and drugs.

From 4PM to 7PM on Wednesday, Oct. 12, Foster County Health will be collecting these medicines for proper disposal.

Simonson added if you’re unable to bring them to their Takeback Health disposal event, there are many other ways to dispose of these drugs.

Opioid overdoses can be reversed with the right medicine. Naloxone or Narcan are both available at Foster County Public Health. Simonson says those businesses and sites who have AEDs are also encouraged to also train and carry Narcan for those who may need it.

If you have questions or want to schedule a training, you can call Foster County Public Health at 701-652-3087.

Listen to a full interview with Robin Simonson from Tuesday, Oct. 11 below: