October 25, 2011

Communities Rally for Drug Abuse Prevention This Week

Celebrate Safe Communities Events Address the Importance of Drug-Free Environments During Crime Prevention Month

Arlington, VA – October is National Crime Prevention Month and this week, events will highlight the growing trend of illicit drug use and prescription drug abuse, bringing awareness to the potential dangers that exist in medicine cabinets across the country. Celebrate Safe Communities registrants will hold local community events to educate local residents and community members on the increasing problem and the significant public health and safety issues involved with the misuse of prescription and illicit drugs. This past year, young adults between the ages of 18-25 have had the highest rate of prescription drug abuse, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. 

“Safegaurding America’s teens and young adults on alcohol and drug abuse is important to the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC),” said NCPC President and CEO Ann M. Harkins. “We are pleased to partner with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Drug-Free America (Pact360) during Red Ribbon week and give resources and tools to parents, law enforcement and schools to help reduce drug abuse.”

The National Crime Prevention Council will share resources for the Celebrate Safe Communities events to help guide communities on the best way to purchase products from legitimate online pharmacies.  Community organizations remain key partners in providing the necessary education and assistance for prevention and safer environments in local communities.
The nationwide Celebrate Safe Communities initiative is a joint effort by the National Crime Prevention Council and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, U.S. Department of Justice. For additional information on the Celebrate Safe Communities program and to view the Celebrate Safe Communities events held throughout the country, visitwww.celebratesafecommunities.org.

About the National Crime Prevention Council
The National Crime Prevention Council is the nonprofit leader in crime prevention. For 30 years, our symbol of safety, McGruff the Crime Dog^®, has delivered easy-to-use crime prevention tips that protect what matters most—you, your family, and your community. Law enforcement agencies nationwide rely on our expertise to make an impact on personal safety and crime every day. For more information on how NCPC can be a public safety expert for you or how to “Take A Bite Out of Crime^®,” visit www.ncpc.org.

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