WASHINGTON — National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is giving people a safe way to dispose of unwanted drugs.

The event is put on by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Everything from needles, pills and even creams can be dropped off at various locations across the state.

On Saturday, Arlington police officers spoke with residents at the Langston-Brown Community Center as they dropped off bags.

“It’s a place where you can come and turn in your medication so that it doesn’t end up in the wrong hands,” said Officer Kwame Domfe.

A 2015 survey on drug use and health states that 6.4 million Americans abused controlled prescription drugs, and that a majority of abused prescription drugs originated from home medicine cabinets, the study said.

The drugs will be taken to the state police facility and will be properly destroyed.

Residents are encouraged to contact their local police department anytime to schedule a pickup or drop-off of unwanted drugs.