Northeast residents are asked not to pick up discarded needles, and let professionals handle it. (File photo/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

Sharps safety

Proper handling of discarded needles important as snow melts

Apr 9, 2025 | 2:57 PM

The spring weather has finally arrived, and the snowpack is quickly becoming a memory.

Unfortunately, that can be a bad thing in many communities as discarded needles are uncovered after the snow disappears.

The needles can be found in any public area, including parks, recreation areas, alleys, and perhaps even in your yard from passersby.

Melfort Fire Chief Leonard Whitney told northeastNOW it’s important to dispose of them as safely as possible.

“Probably the best way [to dispose of found needles] would be to give us a call us at City Hall,” said Whitney. The sharps can be disposed of by Whitney himself, another member of the department, or sometimes Melfort Ambulance offers their assistance.

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The department has the appropriate equipment to help properly handle the needles, and Whitney said you never know what’s on, or in, a needle. That uncertainty makes it even more important to correctly and safely dispose of the sharps.

“The best course of action is to stay clear,” explained Whitney. “If you could mark it with something and make sure it’s safe as it can be until we can get there, that would be appreciated.”

Whitney said some years are busier for sharps calls than others.

“For the most part we don’t see lots like the cities do yet, but it’s definitely something we see more of every year.”

Melfort residents can call City Hall at 306-752-5911 to have the sharps dealt with.

The Town of Nipawin has also issued a public service announcement (PSA) about safety when it comes to finding sharps in the community.

They encourage people to call the Nipawin Fire Department at 306-862-4000, Town Office at 306-862-9866, or Provincial Dispatch at 306-953-4284 to get the needles safely picked up.

“Your awareness helps protect kids, pets, and everyone in our community,” the release said. “Let’s keep Nipawin safe and clean this spring – together.”

The Nipawin PSA said anyone needing to dispose of personal syringes should use a proper sharps container. Failing that, they can use a heavy plastic container like a laundry soap or bleach bottle.

“These should be clearly labelled with ‘sharps’ in permanent marker and dropped off at continued care on Railway (Ave.), a healthcare facility, or your local pharmacy,” the release stated. “Do not put them in regular recycling!”

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Cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com