The Big Red Barrel Program is designed to reduce misuse of prescription drugs in a community by proactive collection and disposal through safe means, utilizing a local “drop-off barrel” point. The barrels are permanent units located at police stations, and allow community members to properly dispose of their unused, unwanted or expired medication for free.

All medication is then collected and transported by law enforcement officials, and disposed of in an environmentally safe, EPA-approved manner. Pharmaceutically-controlled substances are accepted including, but not limited to, OxyContin, Vicodin, and Percocet.

The Red Barrel Program has just been installed in the Chelsea Police Department lobby.  Citizens are encouraged to participate if they need to dispose of any unwanted/expired medications, both over the counter and prescription medications.  Below are a few guidelines you should know to make the process go smoothly.  This program can be utilized 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

1.  No liquids, needles, or inhalers will be accepted.
2.  You will be asked to remove the pills from the bottles and dispose of them in a zip-loc bag.
3.  You will also be asked the names of the medications for employee safety
4. You can choose to provide a name and number.