From Cook County Public Health and Human Services - April 16, 2025

When a person safely stores substances such as prescription medication, cannabis products, vitamins, or supplements, it is less likely that another person will accidentally consume or intentionally misuse them. Children and pets can be particularly at risk for accidentally consuming substances left around the house, mistaking them for candy or other foods. Safe storage means that substances are stored out of reach in a locked container.

Using Opioid Settlement Funds for Cook County, medication lockboxes are available at no cost to community members as long as supplies last. This is a collaborative effort between Cook County Public Health and Human Services, Grand Portage Health Services, Grand Portage Human Services, and Sawtooth Mountain Clinic. One lockbox per household can be requested in person starting on Monday, April 21, at any of the participating locations.

If you have medications that are expired or no longer needed, it is recommended that they be disposed of safely. Medication disposal is available at the Cook County Sheriff's Office and Grand Portage Health Services. DeTerra Drug Deactivation packets are also available in the cabinets at the Cook County Community Center restrooms or by request through Public Health. EpiPens can be returned to the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic Pharmacy for disposal. Syringes can be disposed of at North Shore Health if they are in an approved syringe disposal container. 

If you would like more information or if you need assistance accessing a lockbox, contact Cook County Public Health at 218-387-3605.