The July Fire Department report to Nipawin Council outlined significant sharps discoveries. (File photo/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

Sharps concerns

Thousands of discarded needles found after two fire department calls in Nipawin

Aug 12, 2025 | 4:59 PM

Some concerning numbers from the Fire Department’s Monthly Report at this week’s council meeting in Nipawin.

The July Fire Department report revealed a disturbing month as it relates to needles in the community.

There were 2568 sharps removed from the community last month alone, bringing the yearly total to 3427.

Two of those sharps pick-ups accounted for the spike in numbers.

A 9-1-1 call about a vehicle at the Evergreen Centre on July 21 was shocking.

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A sweep of the vehicle revealed 1226 sharps, with Fire Chief Paul Cockell counting each needle himself.

A structure fire at an apartment complex on 6th Ave. W. just five days later revealed another huge needle discovery.

Following the Nipawin Fire Department’s response, “sharps were found strewn throughout” the apartment. A full container was also discovered.

The report estimated there were roughly 1300 needles found at the apartment, and the fire department notified RCMP and Social Services.

Residents in Nipawin can call the fire hall at 306-862-4000, the Town Office at 306-862-9866, or the Provincial Dispatch at 1-306-953-4282 if they see discarded needles in the community.

A news release from the Town of Nipawin earlier this year had asked people to properly dispose of sharps, after needles were found in a load of recycling materials.

A message with Fire Chief Paul Cockell was not returned by the time this article was published.

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com