Don’t touch . . .tel

mce_markerA CAMPAIGN has been launched in Carmarthenshire to remove discarded needles and educate the public on what to do if they find any.

The council and Tidy Towns are working with the Community Safety Partnership to keep the county clean and safe.

Hotspot areas are being targeted by Tidy Towns cleansing operatives who have been given special sharps handling kits.

It is part of the wider Clean up Carmarthenshire campaign.

Any discarded needles should be reported immediately so that it can be removed safely and quickly. DO NOT touch it or attempt to remove the needle yourself.

Executive Board Member for Community Safety Cllr Pam Palmer said: “A number of steps are being taken to try and reduce the number of discarded needles in the county but it is important that the public know what to do if they find any.

“Discarded hypodermic needles and syringes can be a danger because of the risk of injury and infection; so it is important not to touch it. Phone the council immediately so that one of our cleansing operatives can remove it safely.”

Discarded needles can be found in many places but are most commonly found in parks, recreational areas, public buildings, car parks and vacant properties. They may also be found in litter bins, cardboard boxes and bin bags.

Executive Board Member for Technical Services Cllr Colin Evans said: “We are also reminding residents to make sure they dispose of needles and syringes in the correct manner. They should not be put out with their normal household waste. All used needles should be placed in yellow sharps boxes and disposed off according to clinical waste disposal procedures.”

The council’s Grounds Maintenance team are also carrying out regular checks across the county – particularly at known hotspots – and are working with police to pass on information.

To report discarded needles or for more advice on safe disposal call Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567.

If you do pierce or puncture your skin with a used needle, please follow this advice:

• Encourage the wound to bleed, ideally by holding it under running water

• Wash the wound using running water and plenty of soap (but do not scrub it)

• Don’t suck the wound

• Dry the wound and cover it with a waterproof plaster or dressing

• Seek urgent medical advice – go to the nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department