Prescription drugs are now the No. 1 accidental killer in San Diego County, according to the Medical Examiner's Annual Report.
The report revealed 267 deaths were related to prescription drugs, an increase over last year and part of a disturbing trend seen over the last six years.
WATCH >> NCPC President Aaron Byzak spoke with Marc Bailey at San Diego 6 News in the Morning about the growing local problem.
More must be done to raise awareness about the dangers associated with increased dependence on prescription drugs.
The first step is to reduce access.
North County residents can take action to stem this devastating trend this Saturday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the 5th Annual Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
Find the location nearest you to safely surrender unused, unwanted prescription drugs: www.dea.gov.
If you miss this weekend's event, there is another way to safely clean out your medicine cabinet.. Permanent collection drop-box locations are available throughout the county, learn more at www.sdsheriff.net.
Get help by calling the prescription drug hotline at (887) 662-6384 or the County's Access and Crisis Line at (800) 479-3339.