Community News

MELTING SNOW CAN REVEAL DISCARDED NEEDLES

BILL HODGINS bhodgins@mykawartha.com

Spring showers may bring new flowers, but there may be more on the ground that you need to be aware of. Peterborough Public Health offers these tips if you come across needles exposed by melting snow.

USE TONGS OR PLIERS TO PICK THEM UP

When you come across a discarded needle on the ground, the health unit suggests you use pliers or tongs to pick them up. Then place them in a puncture proof contain and sure it with a lid and tape. You should also label the container.

IF YOU FIND THEM ON CITY PROPERTY

If it is on City property, contact the public works department at 705-745-1386. If it's in the County, contact the OPP at 705-742-0401.

WHAT IF IT IS ON YOUR PROPERTY?

If it is on private property, the property owner is responsible for taking care of it. Ensure you take proper precautions and never place needles in recycling bins or garbage cans.

WHERE CAN YOU TAKE THEM?

On its website, PPH offers a list and map of 13 different needle disposal bins in the City of Peterborough, including the Peterborough Public Library (around back), the Opioid Response Hub at 22 Simcoe Street, and Roger's Cover on Maria Street (outside the public washrooms).

WHAT IF IT IS A REGULAR OCCURANCE IN YOUR AREA?

You can pick up a yellow disposal bin for free at

many area pharmacies. At PARN, 60 Hunter Street East in Peterborough, you can pick up needle disposal bins, tongs, and gloves free of charge. They can also provide brief education on safe disposal.

NEWS

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2023-03-23T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-03-23T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://communitynews.pressreader.com/article/281565180007077

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