The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will hold its National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, April 25, offering the public a free, safe, and anonymous way to dispose of unused, unwanted, or expired medications — with collection sites available across Connecticut and nationwide.

Connecticut residents can drop off unused, expired, or unwanted prescription drugs at collection sites in municipalities throughout the state, from large cities to smaller towns. Sites are typically located at local police departments, pharmacies, and hospitals. The events run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The twice-yearly initiative was created to keep unused medications out of the wrong hands and out of the environment. Prescription drugs left in medicine cabinets are a leading source of diverted medications, particularly opioids, while flushing or trashing them can contaminate water supplies. No personal information is required and there is no charge to participate.

Since the program launched in 2010, the DEA and its partners have collected more than 20 million pounds of medications nationally. At the most recent Take-Back Day last October, more than 4,300 collection sites gathered over 571,000 pounds of drugs in a single day.

To find the nearest Connecticut drop-off location, visit dea.gov/takebackday.