OPP is reminding you that if see a discarded syringe, you need to dispose of it properly.
The Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment said it was made aware of 20 improperly discarded needles under the Mary Street Bridge in Pembroke. They say the needles were located and safely disposed of by the City of Pembroke’s staff.
OPP say that there are steps you must take to get rid of needles, which they also call sharps. The police say to not put needles in garbage or recycling. Rather, they say that the Health Unit and most pharmacies offer containers and disposal services free of charge. They also say the Ottawa Valley Waste Recovery Center accepts sharps at their hazardous Waste Depot and at environment day locations. They must be packed in a rigid and unbreakable container. They must be also sealed and labeled to indicate they have syringes in them.
When handling needles the OPP also says there are some precautions you should follow. They say to not try to put the cap back on the needle, and not to snap, break or bend any part of it. They say to wear gloves and pick up the needle carefully. They say to use tongs or long-nosed pliers to do so.
The City of Pembroke also offers disposal centers for needles. They are located at Douglas Street at Lea Street, the OATC clinic at 156 John Street and the Waterfront Park washrooms on Alexander Street. Police say you can also contact the City for disposal if the needles are on public property.