• Never drink and drive.  Don’t mix riding with alcohol or drugs.  A court can suspend the privilege of a person to operate a snowmobile if the person is convicted of snowmobiling under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The court can also suspend the snowmobile registration.
• Travel only in areas open to snowmobiling.  A free statewide snowmobile trail map of the state-designated trail system is available by calling (518) 474-0446.
• Travel at reasonable speeds.   Drivers should proceed at a pace that will allow ample reaction time for any situation. Drive at moderate speeds, and drive defensively, especially after sunset.
• Wear safety gear.  Wear a helmet, eye protection, and other safety gear.  Since April 1, 1998, NYS has required each operator and passenger on a snowmobile to wear protective headgear approved by the Commissioner of the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
• Use caution at night.  Wear reflective clothing and reduce your speed.
• Use the buddy system.  Riding solo can leave you vulnerable if you have an accident or breakdown. Most snowmobile accidents result in personal injury. The most dangerous situations occur when a person is injured and alone. If you must travel alone, tell someone of your destination, planned route, and when you will return.
• Use common snowmobile safety.  When climbing a hill, approach the summit with caution.  Cross roadways at a 90-degree angle.  Be aware of unmarked hazards or obstacles hidden beneath the snow.  Ride single file, keep to the right and pass on the left only when the trail is clear.  When stopping on the trail, pull your sled as far right and off the trail as possible.

Hopefully, with the above tips everyone can enjoy the fun and excitement of snowmobile riding.

Sheriff Ronald Cary in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are offering the following safety tips to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable Super Bowl.  The Super Bowl is fast becoming one of America’s favorite “holidays”.  The popularity of the day is no longer just about the game.  This day is also known for the commercials as well as the food and drinks.  It is estimated that Super Bowl Sunday is the second deadliest day of the year with New Years as number one.  On average there is one alcohol-related fatality every 31 minutes.  If you are going to be attending a party or hosting one at home please consider some of the following tips to ensure that everyone has a happy and joyous “holiday”.

• If you are planning on hosting a party, be responsible yourself. Limiting your alcohol intake will allow you to better determine if a guest is able to drive at the end of the night.
• Have Non-Alcoholic Beverages Available. Always have alternative beverages for those guests who are driving or choose not to drink.
• Don’t rush to refill or force drinks on your guests. Push the food on your guests, not the alcohol.
• Make such your serve food and water with the alcohol. It is proven that food and water can help counter the effects of alcohol.
• Encourage the use of designated drivers or a cab service. Make sure that any guest who has had too much to drink doesn’t drive.

REMEMBER: You can be held financially responsible for your guests’ actions after they leave your party

Do you or someone close to you know how it feels to be victimized?  If you have ever been the victim of a burglary or a larceny then you know.  Chances are you feel violated or scared.  You may even feel unsafe in your own home.  In times of economic difficulties burglaries and larcenies seem to increase.  But, by knowing and practicing some of the safety tips below you can greatly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.

Today’s criminals look for any items that they can easily dispose of for quick cash.  Such items tend to be; GPS Systems, CDs, laptops, generators, tools, air compressors, cameras and jewelry.  ATVs, motorcycles, trailers, snowmobiles, lawn care equipment as well as gasoline are also being targeted for theft.  With scrap metal being bought at an all time high any such items lying unsecured may also be stolen.

If a home is hard to enter, and another home nearby is an easier target, they will move on.  Take a look at your home from burglar’s standpoint.  Do bushes and shrubs obscure doors and windows?  Do you leave your house and garage doors open and unlocked?  Are entrances to your home unlighted?  Does your house look lived-in when you are away?  Remember to always notify a trusted neighbor or relative with your travel plans.  Leave a key and any emergency contact information with them as well.  Ask the Post Office to hold your mail so that it doesn’t accumulate in your mailbox and don’t forget to stop your newspaper delivery or ask someone to pick up these items.

Always write down serial numbers, staple receipts to the manuals and store them in a safe secured area.  This will help law enforcement in recovering your stolen items as well as help you with any insurance claims.   Remember safes can be stolen unless they are properly secured to the floor or walls.  For items without serial numbers, especially antiques and jewelry, in most cases a photograph can serve as identification and proof of ownership.

Don’t enter your house if you notice any open windows or doors that you didn’t leave open.  Instead go back to you car or a neighbor’s house and call 911.   Don’t assume all burglaries happen at night or when you are out of the house.  More and more burglaries are happening in day time while the homeowner is away. 

Lock your house and garage doors when you are home and when you leave.  Install a lock bar and a bolt lock on any sliding doors to prevent the doors from being slid or lifted off their tracks.  Install a double keyed deadbolt if you have a door with a glass window in it.  This will make it more difficult to open the door even if the thief breaks the glass.   Never leave your house key under doormats, in mailboxes, or other outside location where a burglar could easily find it. 

Never leave your keys in your car even if you park your car in the garage.  Always lock your car doors.  Place valuables in your trunk or out of plain sight.

Many burglaries and larcenies are solved after someone sees a suspicious person or vehicle and calls police.  If you notice anyone or anything suspicious, call 911.  Note any descriptions possible such as; clothing, hair color, direction of travel and license plate numbers.  Don’t feel embarrassed or afraid to call.  If the event has already occurred and you would like to report what you saw, please call the Madison County Sheriff’s Office at (315)366-2311, or visit our website at www.madisoncountysheriff.us and click on “Reporting a Crime/Drug Tip”.  By being observant citizens we all can do our part in the fight against crime.

Sheriff Ronald Cary in conjunction with the US Department of Justice and the National Consumer Law Center is offering the following safety tips to warn older Americans against becoming victims of a home improvement scam.

Now is the time that most people adventure outside to clean their yards or make home improvements.  While there are many home improvement contractors that are legitimate there are also a small percentage of contractors that are not.  These con-artists may use many different types of tactics when targeting seniors. 

Make sure you:

·         Deal with reputable licensed and insured companies within your own area.  Ask neighbors and friends to recommend a good handyman or contractor.

·         Don't rely on leaflets stuffed in mailboxes or posted on bulletin boards. 

·         Demand a written contract, including the work to be performed, the time frame and the agreed-upon cost of supplies and labor.   Always keep a copy of the contract in a place you will easily find it.

·         Be sure the work is really necessary. Don't take the word of someone who comes to your door.

·         Do not permit itinerant handymen to examine your house so they can give you an estimate. This is often the set-up to a scam or burglary ... or worse. Ask them to leave immediately. Call the police if they don't.

·         Don't let the contractor finance your project. This almost always results in unnecessary charges. If you need financing, contact a bank or credit union.

·         Don’t be pushed into making quick decisions, get at least 2 other bids.

·         Ask for reference information such as names, addresses, and telephone numbers of previously satisfied customers.  Obtain a name, telephone number and address of the person attempting to sell you the product, and tell them you will contact them after you call their references.

·         Be suspicious if the contractor tells you that they just happen to have left over materials from a previous job: This rarely turns out to be a bargain and is a favorite scam of groups who prey on the elderly with driveway sealing or home power washing schemes.

Victims shouldn’t feel embarrassed or be hesitate to contact the Madison County Office of the Sheriff.  Remember that these con-artists are skilled and are very practiced in the art of deception.

If you have elderly friends or family be sure to share this information with them; and let them know if at any time they have any concerns with a solicitor they should close the door and call the Sheriff’s Office. A little awareness and education can go a long way in protecting our elderly from these predatory thieves.

If you have been victimized once, be wary of persons who call offering to help you recover your losses for a fee paid in advance.

If you have information about a fraud/scam, report it to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, by calling (315)366-2311, anonymous reports can be submitted by visiting our website www.madisoncountysheriff.us.

The Holiday Season can be a time to celebrate with family and friends.  The Holiday Season can also be a time when crime is more prevalent.

The following are some Holiday Shopping Safety Tips to help you become more prepared and aware and ensure your holiday is a joyous one.

• Remember to leave a light on at home when you are away.   See our website for tips on preventing Burglaries and Larcenies.  www.madisoncountysheriff.us
• Have your keys out and ready before you walk to your car or your front door.  Then lock the doors after entering your vehicle or home.
• If you carry a purse, keep it in front of you and close to your body.  Never leave your purse unattended on a store counter or in a shopping cart.  Try placing your wallet inside a front pocket instead of a rear pocket.  Pickpockets seek out these easy targets.
• Remember the saying “There is safety in numbers”, try shopping with friends and family. 
• Bring only the credit cards you intend to use.  Leave large amounts of cash and extra credit cards at home.  Keep a record of credit card numbers and phone numbers at home.  Report to the credit card company immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
• When choosing a parking spot look for one that is close to the entrance and well-lighted.  Store all packages in your trunk, out of sight.  After placing packages into your car, move to a new spot in the lot before returning to shop.  Thieves will watch and search for shoppers who drop off their packages and then continue shopping.
• Be alert in crowded areas; such as malls, stores, elevators or bus and train stations.  Places with large crowds are favorites for thieves and pickpockets.  Pay attention to people who are walking in front and behind you.
• Keep an eye on young children.  Teach them what to do in the event you become separated.  The best option is to look for a security or police officer or a customer service desk where people are trained to help.
• Trust your instincts, if you feel uncomfortable in a place or a situation, leave.

For more information on safety or the Madison County Sheriff’s Office please visit our website at www.madisoncountysheriff.us. 

Snow, ice, and extreme cold can make driving treacherous. These safety tips from the Centers for Disease Control, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the National Safety Councils and the Madison County Office of the Sheriff can help make winter car travel safer.

• Always make sure you and all of your passengers wear a seatbelt.  Use an appropriate child safety seat for all children under the age of seven.
• Before winter arrives, have your car tuned up, check fluid levels such as; washer fluid and antifreeze, make sure the battery is good, and check your tire tread or put on snow tires.  (In New York State snow tires are permitted from October 15 through April 30)
• Keep emergency gear in your car for everyday trips:
  • cell phone
  • flashlight
  • jumper cables
  • sand or kitty litter (for traction)
  • ice scraper, snow brush, and small shovel
  • blankets
  • warning devices (e.g., flares, reflectors)
• For long car trips, keep food, water, extra blankets, and required medication on hand.
• Remember to leave extra distances between yourself and other cars.  Stopping distances are longer on water-covered road and ice.
• Most winter weather-related crashes are caused by “spin-outs” and vehicles sliding off the road due to excessive speeds for the road and weather conditions
• The transition from summer driving to winter driving can be difficult for some people.  Avoid driving in snow or ice storms.  If you must travel in bad weather, drive slowly. Let someone know what route you're taking and when you plan to arrive so they can alert authorities if you don't get there.
• Bridges and elevated roads will always freeze before other roads.  Always use caution and slow down on these roadways.
• If your car is parked outside, make sure the exhaust pipe and the area around it are free of snow before you start the car. Snow packed in or around the exhaust pipe can cause high levels of carbon monoxide in the car.
• Don't sit in a parked car with the engine running unless a window is open. Do not let your car run while parked in a garage.
• Completely clear your vehicle of snow and ice prior to driving. This will provide an unobstructed view and prevent snow and ice from flying off your vehicle and potentially posing a hazard to others on the road.
• If your car stalls or gets stuck in snow, dial 911, light two flares and place one at each end of the car, a safe distance away. Make sure snow has not blocked the exhaust pipe. Then stay in your vehicle and open a window slightly to let in fresh air. Wrap yourself in blankets and run your vehicle's heater for a few minutes every hour to keep warm.

Once again, summer is almost over and as we prepare for a new school year please keep in mind some of the safety tips below.

When school is opening in the morning and closing in the afternoon, the area around the school is a very busy and crowded. There will be many children using the crosswalk.  Car drivers, bikers and in-line skaters must stop to allow people in the crosswalk to cross the street.

Remember that if you are approaching a school bus from either the front or behind, and its yellow lights are flashing, the bus is preparing to stop.

If the bus’ red lights are flashing, YOU MUST STOP.  It's the law!

This includes school buses that are:

·         on the opposite sides of divided highways,

·         on multiple lane roadways,

·         in parking lots,

·         or on school grounds.

(NOTE:  The only exception to this law is if the bus driver or a police officer signals that you may pass the bus.)

The first-time for illegally passing a school bus is a $250-400 fine, 5 points on your license and/or possibly 30 days in jail.

Worse yet, the memory of hitting or killing a child may be one you carry for the rest of your life!

Parents please help to remind and reinforce with your little ones the following:

• It is important to look carefully to the left, right and left again if you have to cross the street.
• If you must walk through parked traffic, stop and look carefully before stepping out from between vehicles.
• Remember the danger areas around school buses where the driver can't see you.
• Don't run across the street or through a parking lot trying to catch up with your friends.
• When you are waiting for the school bus, you should wait at the bus stop, and stand well back from the curb.
• When you get off the bus:

·         Look to the rear of the bus before you step off the bottom step.

·         Make sure you have eye contact with the driver, and wait for the driver to signal you before you cross in front of the bus.

·         Never go back for anything you have left on the bus.

·         Never bend down near or under the bus.

With motorists being the second leading cause of student transport fatalities, hopefully the above safety tips will ensure that we all have a safe 2009-2010 school year.

Sheriff Ronald Cary in conjunction with the (CDC) Center of Disease Control is offering the following safety tips to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable Prom Night. Prom night is one of the most exciting and memorable time in a teen’s life.  Unfortunately for parents it is one of the scariest.  Prom night always seems to be linked with drunken-driving injuries and deaths, date rapes, pregnancies and STDs. It's become the night where teens' poor judgment and dangerous choices have become institutionalized.  Parents are encouraged to talk to their children and encourage some of the following safety tips.

·         Tell your children to keep you up to date with their itinerary for the evening, including whom they will be with, where they'll be going after the prom and the phone numbers where you can contact them. "We'll just be driving around" is not an acceptable response. Agree on a curfew, based upon your children's past level of responsibility in this area. Express your concerns about their health and safety and explain to them why prom night makes it more difficult to make safe and smart decisions. Don't be vague -- discuss drinking, drugging, driving under the influence, and sex. Ask your child what they would say in different situations, such as being offered alcohol or another illegal drug, being offered a ride by an intoxicated driver, or pressure to have sex.  Reinforce your belief in their character and in their ability to act responsibly.

·         If your children is planning to attend an after the prom party make sure you know the location.  If this party is at other kids’ houses speak directly with their parents to make certain someone will be there to supervise and ask if they are allowing drinking in their homes.  Many parents believe that as long as they "take keys" in a situation like this that underage drinking is permissible in their houses. This should not be allowed, in fact it is illegal.

·         If they're not driving themselves, you must know who'll be driving them. No matter how times in the past you have had to talk, reinforce the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, let them know that these dangers are particularly high on prom night.  Make sure they keep an eye on their driver.  Alcohol slows reaction time and impairs vision, clear thinking, judgment, and coordination.  After the red light turns green, wait a second before pulling into the intersection, just to be safe.  Let them know that if they feel uncomfortable with their situation they can call you for a ride. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and injury in teenagers nationwide. Don’t let them forget their seatbelt!  70% of teens killed on prom weekends were not wearing seatbelts.

• Consider arranging specific check-in times, and make sure you can contact your teen throughout the entire night.  Tell your child that they can call you at ANY time for a ride, help or advice.  That includes picking them up at any time of day or night, with a promise not to shame or humiliate them in front of others.

Talk to your children about some of the above safety tips and help make sure prom night is a positive experience your children will always remember.   

Sheriff Ronald Cary in conjunction with AAA, Consumer Products Commission, and Family Education is offering the following safety tips.

According to the AAA Motor Club, motorists will still be hitting the road for summer trips despite high gas prices.  Most summer trips will be by auto, truck or RV at 75% while 22% will be by airplane and 2% by bus or other form of transportation.  Many of these trips will be to amusement parks.  The following are some safety tips to keep in mind to ensure a safe and fun filled time for the entire family.

Amusement Parks

• Dress small children in brightly colored, distinctive outfits that are easy to describe should you become separated.
• Take current photos of your children with you on vacations.  Call the Sheriff’s Office’s Community Services Department at (315)366-2482 to schedule an appointment for an Operation Safe Child ID Card.  This card will contain all the necessary information, as well as your child’s photograph. 
• Have a plan. As soon as you enter the park, choose a convenient, and easy to recognize location to meet your family if you are separated. A large landmark or attraction that is easily visible from around the park is a good choice. Or, consider meeting at a location that will be clearly marked on signs throughout the park, such as first aid, the exit, or the park's most popular attraction. Wherever you choose to meet, remind each other throughout the day of your plan, and point out this landmark to children several times.
• With older children pick a time and place to gather if they are exploring the park on their own. 
• Check height restrictions before you line up for a ride to ensure that the ride is safe for children (these restrictions are recommended for safety sake).  The Park map may also show height restrictions.  Don't coax children onto a ride they are unsure of or are too small for the seat/seatbelt.

Public Restrooms

• Instruct your child to yell loudly "NO" or "HELP" if approached by a stranger in any circumstance and to approach security staff.  Do this often and before any family outing to reinforce your family's safety procedures.
• Ask for and use family washrooms where possible.  Accompany children when using public washrooms.   Parents should not feel uncomfortable about taking a under child into a washroom facility if a family washroom is not available.
• Avoid facilities that are down dark or long hallways - look for well-lit washrooms.
• Sending two or three children together to the washroom or having older siblings or friends accompany a younger child is an option.  Encourage them to enter and leave the washroom together.
• If you are comfortable letting your child use the public washroom - stand outside the door and call in as your child enters the washroom "I'm right outside the door if you need me just call", "Is everything alright?" and then call again in a minute "Are you okay?".  Insist that your child answer these questions.  You can even create a code word for the answer.  If you don't get an answer or are unsure enter the washroom immediately to ensure your child is safe. Informing them that you are going to do this will encourage them to answer you as well.
• Insist that all family members wash their hands after using public facilities. 

Strangers

Keep in mind is that a stranger who is able to call a child by name appears to be less of a stranger. Think twice before allowing your child to wear a shirt, team jersey, or jacket with his or her name on it. If someone were to call your child's name, it would catch the child's attention, be a distraction, and make a stranger's story even more convincing.

Following a few simple safety guidelines will make your summer trip more enjoyable for your family. Make the most of this memorable time spent together, and plan ahead for a day that is not only fun-filled, but safe as well.

Sheriff Ronald Cary in conjunction with the American Medical Association and the Journal of American College Health is offering the following safety tips to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable Spring Break.  It’s hard to believe that Spring Break is just around the corner.   With all the excitement of deciding on a destination and planning the trip, safety is the last thing a young person thinks about.  Please keep the following safety tips in mind while enjoying your spring break.

• Before You Leave - Remember to bring your ID’s (Driver’s License and/or passport) as well as your health insurance card and allergy bracelets.  Give a trusted friend or family member at home a copy of your travel plans itinerary.
• Drinking - New York State Law requires that you must be 21 to purchase, consume, or possess alcoholic beverages.  Each state and/or country may have different liquor laws.  It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before you leave.  Don't drink and drive. There are plenty of non-alcoholic alternatives.  Of college students, 97 percent under the age of 21 will be likely to drink during Spring Break.  The average male will have 18 alcoholic drinks per day and the average female will have 10.  It is estimated that 75 percent of college males and 43.6 percent of females reported being intoxicated on a daily basis during spring break. Nearly half of the males and more than 40 percent of the females also reported being drunk to the point of vomiting or passing out at least once during break.  
• Drug Poisoning - Never accept open drinks from a stranger.  Watch out for "rape" drugs. Don't leave your drink unattended.  Look for extreme wooziness, confusion, difficulty standing and slurred speech. These are symptoms that you may have unknowingly been drugged. If you or your friends exhibit these symptoms go back to your hotel, or to a hospital if the symptoms are severe. 
• Pickpockets - Be aware of pickpockets who prey on people in crowds. They get close and bump into you without you noticing. Pickpockets also work in groups. One will distract while the other slips away with your goodies.
• Money - Use caution when using the ATM.  Try to go during daylight hours. When you approach the ATM, do a full 360 degree scan, looking completely around you to see if anyone is hanging out where they shouldn’t be. When punching in your pin number, use your other hand to cover the keypad. Always be on the lookout for anyone suspicious. If you feel uncomfortable go to another ATM.
• Hotel Safety - Lock you door, always use the peephole before answering.  Never open your door to a stranger, if someone claims to be a staff member call the front desk first to verify them.  Use the hotel safe for valuables.  DO NOT CLIMB on balconies or sit on balcony rails.
• Buddy System - The more friends you are with the less likely you will become a victim of a crime.  Never walk alone or leave with a stranger.  Use a “buddy” to help you keep the voice of reason.  Women are more likely to be victims of sexual violence than men.  Never allow yourself to be taken to an isolated location or walk alone.
• Beach Safety - Sun can maximize the effects of alcohol. Take it slow and stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. Stay within the designated swimming area and within the visibility of a lifeguard.  Never swim alone.   Watch out for traffic - some beaches allow cars. If you're driving... obey the speed limit.

Hopefully, these safety tips can ensure a safe Spring Break.  But the best safety tips above all else is to use common sense.

Soon many little ghosts and ghouls will be out in full force.  Before you and your trick or treater leave for a night of fun please review with them some safety tips to help ensure the night is a safe and happy success.

Remember when trick or treating to always;

• walk with a responsible adult or teen, in groups of 4 or more, 
• walk with a flashlight and wear reflective patches or strips on costumes.  Glow sticks are also helpful,
• walk on well light streets and only go to the houses that have porch lights on, wait in the driveway or by the door until the children return,
• NEVER enter a stranger’s house, even if invited and NEVER take a ride from a stranger,
• walk on sidewalks when possible or the left side of the road facing traffic, never run across yards or streets,
• choose non-toxic face paint instead of a mask, masks can sometimes interfere with vision.  If your child does wear a mask, make sure it has adequate holes for proper respiration and peripheral vision.
• look for flame retardant or fire-proof costumes, and
• keep your costumes simple, use caution walking while wearing long and dark costumes.

Jack-O-Lanterns and electrical decorations can be a fire hazard.  Keep them out of the reach of small children and away from flammable material.

Never eat any treats until they have been examined by a parent.  Check wrappers of pre-packaged treats for any sign of tampering and throw away anything unwrapped.  Discard any homemade treats unless you know and are comfortable with the maker.  If any harmful items are found, notify the Sheriff’s Office by calling (315)366-2311.  Many Fire Departments offer a trick or treat inspection station free of charge.  Check with your local Fire Department.

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with the Partnership for a Drug Free America and Parents, the Anti-Drug are offering the following safety information regarding prescription drug poisoning and abuse.

Accidental Poisoning

More than one million children each year, ages 5 and under are accidentally poisoned, 90% of those poisonings happen at home.  Due to their faster metabolic rate and size children are less able to physically handle toxic chemicals than adults.  Of all accidental poisonings combined, 40% were from prescription drugs and other medications.  To avoid accidental poisoning keep all medications out of reach of small children.  Properly dispose of all outdated or unwanted medications. 

Prescription Drug Abuse

More and more teens are turning away from street drugs and using prescription drugs to get high.  New users of prescription drugs have caught up with new users of marijuana.  There are many reasons why prescription drug abuse among teens occurs.  These drugs are typically readily available, with easy access in most homes.  Many teens think prescription drugs and over the counter medications are safe because they have a legitimate use, but taking them without a prescription to get high or “self-medicate” can be dangerous and addictive as using street narcotics and other illicit drugs.

One in five teens has abused prescription pain medication, stimulants and tranquilizers.  One in ten teens has abused cough medication.  Each day, 2,500 youth ages 12-17 abuse a pain reliever for the first time.  Pain relievers are the most common pharmaceuticals abused among younger teens.  Stimulant abuse is more common among older teens and college students.

Decrease the potential risks by keeping all prescription medications out of teens reach, instead of keeping them in a family medicine cabinet.  Monitor quantities of remaining pills or liquids and keep track of refills.  Properly dispose of all outdated or unwanted medications. 

Look for warning signs that your child maybe abusing any type of medication or drug.  Some signs to look for are constricted pupils, slurred speech or flushed skin.  You should also be alert to any personality changes such as, mood swings, irritability, excessive energy, sleepiness, trouble sleeping, sweating, and loss of appetite, forgetfulness or clumsiness.  Other signs may include loss of interest in school or hobbies, skipping classes and loss of interest in personal appearance.

Talk to your child about the dangers of taking prescription drugs without the supervision of a doctor.  Inform them that abusing pain medication is like abusing heroin because their ingredients (both are opoids) are very similar.  Although starting a conversation with your teen can be difficult it can open doors for both of you and strengthen your relationship.

Disposing of Medications Properly dispose of all outdated or unwanted medications.  Never flush medications down the toilet or drains.  For a copy of Federal guidelines regarding the proper dispose of prescription drugs visit our website at www.madisoncountysheriff.us.

Proper Disposal of Prescription Drugs 
Office of National Drug Control Policy 2009

Federal Guidelines:

Do not flush prescription drugs down the toilet or drain unless the label or accompanying patient information specifically instructs you to do so. For information on drugs that should be flushed visit the FDA’s website.

To dispose of prescription drugs not labeled to be flushed, you may be able to take advantage of community drug take-back programs or other programs, such as household hazardous waste collection events, that collect drugs at a central location for proper disposal. Call your city or county government’s household trash and recycling service and ask if a drug take-back program is available in your community.