Staff Report / cbuslocal.org

The Columbus Division of Fire hosted its Fall Community Safety Day on Saturday, October 26, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Dr. Ned Pettus Jr. Fire Training Academy. The event included a collaboration between the Division’s Crisis Addiction Response Team (RREACT) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as part of the 27th Annual National Drug Take Back Day, aimed at public safety and risk reduction.

Since the National Drug Take Back Day began, the DEA has reported the collection of 9,285 tons of unused medications. In the spring event of this year alone, more than 335 tons of unused medications were collected nationwide. During Saturday's event, a total of 107 pounds of unused medications were collected at both the Community Safety Day and the drop-off location at Columbus Public Health. The DEA team in the Columbus District Office, covering 24 counties in Central Ohio, collected 3,850 pounds on the same day.

Lt. Tiffanie Paige of RREACT emphasized the significance of safely disposing of unused medications, citing statistics connecting prescription medication misuses to addiction. She stated that many people become introduced to drug use through the misuse of prescription drugs.

In addition to medication collection, Community Safety Day featured various activities and resources. Members from RREACT and SPARC teams, in partnership with the Mid-Ohio Food Bank and other nonprofits, distributed approximately 250 bags of groceries. Free Narcan, fentanyl testing strips, and gun locks were also made available, alongside information on obtaining free smoke alarms. Columbus Public Health offered flu shots, while Nationwide Children’s Hospital provided bike helmets for children.

The event included interactive activities such as spraying a fire hose, climbing inside fire trucks, and demonstrations on fire safety. Columbus Police Therapy dogs were present to engage with attendees.

RREACT aims to connect the community with necessary resources during crises. Paige noted that events like this help bridge the gap between the Columbus Fire Division and the community.

The next Community Safety Day is scheduled for spring 2024. The DEA also encourages safe disposal year-round and directs individuals to visit www.dea.gov/everyday-takeback-day for drop-off locations.

Source: Columbus Division of Fire

Source Type: Fire

Source Location: Columbus

Columbus, OH

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