Find a discarded needle? Tips on what to do, and how to do it

Now that the snow has melted, you may come across a discarded needle or two throughout Waterloo Region.

That has health officials out with a reminder on what to do, and how to do it.

Whether you find a needle on the sidewalk, at a park, or on your property – you should report it to ROW Public Health first by calling 519-575-4400.

When it comes to safe disposal – you’ll need gloves (latex, vinyl, or garden), BBQ tongs or tweezers, and a plastic or ‘sharps’ brand container.

You can then take the tightly sealed container to an outdoor drop-box at one of ROW Public Health’s headquarters, or Simcoe House in Cambridge.

If you’re poked by a needle – officials say you should remain calm, allow the wound to bleed freely, apply a sterile bandage, and seek medical attention immediately.

You can see more details and learn more tips below, or by clicking here. 

Steps to safe needle disposal:

1. Put on gloves to protect yourself from fluid contamination (they won’t protect against punctures or cuts though)

2. Bring a puncture-proof, sealable container to the site of the needle and place on a flat surface. ‘Sharps’ containers are available at/can be returned to Region of Waterloo Public Health

3. Pick up the needle with BBQ tongs or tweezers by the middle of the plastic tube with the sharp end facing down. If there are multiple needles, pick them up one at a time

4. Place the needle in the container sharp end first and close the container tightly

5. Remove gloves and wash your hands with warm water and soap, or use hand sanitizer

6. Bring the container to a 24-hour safe ‘sharps’ disposal bin located outdoors

Drop-off locations:

Region of Waterloo Public Health – 99 Regina Street South, Waterloo

Region of Waterloo Public Health – 150 Main Street, Cambridge

Simcoe House – 159 Ainslie Street South, Cambridge