Medications & Thermometers

Medications & Thermometers

MEDICATIONS & MERCURY THERMOMETERS DISPOSAL

The City of Evanston's Health Department continues its cooperation with the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC) to give residents the opportunity to dispose of their mercury-containing thermometers, thermostats and wall switches, unused prescription medications and sharps.

Evanston residents can bring their items to the Environmental Health Division, between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mondays through Fridays only. For more information call 847-866-2949 or download the SWANCC RX Disposal Program Frequently Asked Questions.pdf guide.

At the city’s Health Department, mercury thermometers will be exchanged for new, mercury-free oral thermometers at no cost. Supplies of replacement thermometers are limited. More information on mercury thermometer recycling here>>>

Residentially-generated unused prescriptions, expired over-the-counter drugs, and needles known as “sharps” will also be collected. No other hazardous or special wastes will be accepted.

Residents should follow these guidelines when bringing in their prescriptions:

  • Medicines will be accepted only if in labeled containers
  • The City cannot accept any prescription drugs that are considered a controlled substance
  • Personal information on labels should or can be marked out with black felt tip pens
  • City employees CANNOT touch individual sharps
  • Sharps brought in a coffee can or milk jug must be opened by the person so the City can inspect the contents and then seal the opening with duct tape so it cannot be tampered with
  • No bulk turn-ins will be accepted.

SWANCC will provide one-quart sharps containers to residents who administer home-injections. Containers can be obtained at the Department of Health and Human Services.

Items that will not be accepted include:

  • Institutional or business waste
  • Controlled substances
  • Non-prescription liquids
  • Latex gloves
  • Household chemical waste.

For more information on these SWANCC programs, contact SWANCC (847) 724-9205, info@swancc.org or visit www.swancc.org.