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Safe Storage

KEEPING CHILDREN SAFE

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Child-resistant doesn’t mean child-proof. Secure your prescription and over-the-counter medications, including medical cannabis, out-of-reach from young children as well as teens. Child-resistant packaging helps but is no guarantee of safety.

  • Properly dispose of expired and unused medications
  • Use special care with medications that look like candy
  • Call your local Police Department for safe, confidential drop-off bins

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LOCK UP AND SECURE YOUR MEDICATIONS

In Ventura County in 2016, 9% of 9th graders and 16% of 11th graders said they used Rx painkillers, tranquilizers or sedatives to get “high.”

Most teenagers who abuse prescription drugs are given them for free by a friend or relative.
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Don’t make it easy. Lock up your meds.

  • Keep track of pill quantities
  • Properly dispose of unused medications
  • Block access to online pharmacies and drug sources
  • Participate in county prescription drug take-back days
  • Learn the facts on Rx drug abuse
  • Talk about it

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How Are Prescription Drugs Abused?

  • Taking medication that has been prescribed for somebody else.
  • Taking a drug in a way other than prescribed.
  • Taking a medication to get high.
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How can you keep your home safe?

Start with creating a routine for keeping your family medications secure and safe from children.

  • Get involved in your community Prescription Drug Take-Back Days.
  • Use the Ventura County’s Prescription Drug Disposal Program
  • Consider buying a home Medicine Lock Box to secure your medications. Using a medicine lock box or locking cap can help keep your medication secure.

Related Links

  • Safe Medication Disposal
  • Signs of Prescription Misuse
  • Youth in Ventura County
Learn more →
Medication Safety for Open Houses →
What You Need to Know: Opioids →
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Ventura County Behavioral Health treatment clinics and programs are licensed by the State Department of Health Care Services. Learn more at www.VCBH.org.
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