Collection sites for unwanted or unused prescription drugs will be set up around New Mexico for National Take-Back Day on Saturday.
The event is aimed at keeping potentially dangerous controlled substances from falling into the wrong hands.
Gov. Susana Martinez's office says prescription drug abuse is a vital public safety and public health issue.
According to the state Health Department, more than 480 New Mexicans died of a drug overdose in 2012. That was a seven percent decrease from 2011.
New Mexico State Police along with law enforcement agencies across the state are participating. People can drop off medications at the sites between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Each location will have an officer available to take possession of the unwanted medications. The medications will then be destroyed.
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