Council and Police raise awareness on discarded needles

The council is working with the police in Llanelli to raise awareness on what people should do if they find discarded needles.

Environmental enforcement officers and local police will educate the public on the dangers of discarded needles.

Posters and flyers will be distributed advising people to report any needles immediately so that they can be removed safely and quickly.

Council cleansing operatives have special sharps handling kits and regularly target ‘hotspot’ areas to remove any discarded needles.

Executive Board Member for Environmental and Public Protection Cllr Jim Jones said: “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.”

PC Dave White from the Communities and Partnership Department, who is leading the campaign along with Environmental Enforcement Manager Paul Morris, is urging the public to be vigilant.

He added: “A lot of people automatically assume that needles are used by illegal drug users but the needle exchanges also offer needles to persons using steroids and other drugs.

“I would urge any person using needles to use the exchange and place them in the plastic containers given out and give them back to the exchange.”

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