MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Wisconsin law enforcement agencies collected unwanted and unused medications during National Drug Take Back Day held Saturday, April 26. More than 170 events took place statewide with participation from over 275 law enforcement agencies, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

Drug Take Back Day provides a safe and responsible means of disposing medications while raising awareness about the dangers of improper storage and disposal. Residents were encouraged to turn in prescription and over-the-counter medications, ointments, patches, inhalers and pet medications.

Flushing unused medications is discouraged, as trace pharmaceuticals have been detected in waterways.

Those who missed Saturday’s event can use permanent drug disposal boxes available year-round. More information, including locations, can be found by clicking here.