Needles in your Community

February 27, 2019

Finding discarded needles can be concerning, but it doesn't need to be scary. Here are some evidence-based resources on why needle distribution in your community is important and how to deal with discarded needles.

Fact - Harm reduction education programs help to remove discarded syringes from the community. It achieves this through public support, and community and staff education. BCCDC Harm Reduction Services provides personal sharps containers; communities provide publicly accessible community needle drop boxes, needle disposal advice for the public, and pick-up of discarded drug injection equipment.

Click to learn more about:

Why harm reduction is important

Safe needle disposal

Facts about needle stick injuries

What to do in case of needle stick injury

Facts about needle distribution

Mythbusting - needle distribution vs. needle exchange