Discarded used needles are among the many kinds of leavings more visible as the snow melts. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

By Rob Mahon

Needles Popping Up

Melting snow reveals discarded needles

Apr 12, 2022 | 12:00 PM

This is supposed to be the time of year when the snow melts, and much of it has already revealing grass, concrete, and unfortunately garbage that has been covered for months.

It may also reveal discarded needles.

“As the snow starts to melt, the needles that have been discarded over the winter tend to start showing up,” said Alex Paul, deputy chief of the Prince Albert Fire Department. “We see an increased call volume, although we are not the primary agency that picks up needles in the city of Prince Albert.”

That agency can be reached at 306-765-6533, but if someone comes across a single needle and want to dispose of it themselves, there is a way to do so safely.

“Use a pair of pliers, or a glove, or a napkin or something like that” said Paul. “Pick the syringe up by the barrel, make sure that you’re staying away from the pointed end of the needle, then simply put it into a plastic pop bottle, screw the lid back on, and dispose of it into the garbage.”

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According to Paul, one of the needle disposal bins in the city is in front of the fire station, and it is managed by the safe needle disposal group. Disposing of needles safely is an important thing to keep in mind, because getting pricked by a used needle poses risk of several diseases according to Prairie North Health Region.

“As long as you avoid contact with the needle and don’t puncture your skin, it should be a relatively safe procedure,” said Paul. “Certainly, after you’ve handled anything, needle or otherwise, clean your hands. Wash with soap and water ideally, and if that’s not available use hand sanitizer.”

If, however, the needle does puncture skin, there are some steps people will want to take right away. Washing it thoroughly and immediately is a good step, but there’s another thing people will want to keep in mind that might not be immediately obvious.

“Allow it to bleed a little bit, let some blood out,” Paul said. “Absolutely the most important thing is go to the hospital. You need to be seen in an emergency ward.”

Prairie North Health Region’s pamphlet on needles warns they can be dangerous to children, dogs, anyone looking for old pop bottles in garbage cans, and city park workers among others.

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rob.mahon@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RobMahonPxP