Finding needles in the community are a health and safety concern.
Everyone needs to know what to do when a needle is found.
Each year, there are reports about children or adults finding needles on playgrounds or other places in the community.
In some cases, people have been injured by these needles. These needles may not have been discarded properly after use or have fallen out of the garbage during disposal.
Are used needles dangerous?
They can be if handled incorrectly. The pointed end of the needle can cause injury. The needle is not sterile and the resulting injury can become infected. Although no one has ever, to the best of our knowledge, contracted Hepatitis C or HIV from a discarded needle, why take a chance? Remember, only the sharp end of the needle is dangerous.
What should you tell children about finding needles?
Tell children to never touch or pick up needles. They should tell an adult immediately.
How can an adult safely get rid of a used needle?
Ø Get a plastic bottle or other hard unbreakable container that needles can’t poke through. The container must have a lid
Ø Put the container on a flat surface.
Ø Pick the needle up by the end that is not sharp and keep the pointed end away from you.
Ø Never put the cap back on the needle. Many injuries have happened this way.
Ø Put the needle in the container. If there is a needle cap, put it in the container too. Put the lid on tightly and tape the lid on.
Ø Wash your hands.
Ø Deposit container in designated bin within the City of Prince Albert, public health offices or the hospital emergency department.
What should you do if you poke yourself with a needle?
Wash your hands thoroughly. Put a clean dressing on wound. See a doctor immediately at the hospital emergency department.
