Heroin and meth related deaths in King County have risen sharply since 2013, as have heroin related admissions to substance abuse treatment programs. One way these increases are showing up in our communities is as an increase in used and discarded needles in public places.
Do you encounter used syringes discarded in the neighborhood? Discarded needles in public areas are a health and safety danger. For needle removal in parks we can call Seattle Parks Department’s maintenance request line at 206-684-7250. For needles on other city-owned land or facilities we can call the SPU illegal dumping hotline at 206-684-7587 Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.
BUT, if you would like to learn how to safely pick up and dispose of needles you encounter on your walks, you can register for a free training session.
When: Saturday, February 20, 2016, 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Where: University Masonic Lodge, 4338 University Way NE (next to Bartells)
For more information and to RSVP, contact Michael Cuadra at mccuadra@msn.com.
Joe Tinsley, Needle Exchange Coordinator for Seattle-King County Public Health, will talk about the risks, proper handling, and disposal of used needles.
While supplies last, free sharps containers and tools to pick up the needles safely will be available to take home.
This event was developed by the Social Services Committee of the North Precinct Advisory Council, and the free tools are funded by a grant from the University Masonic Lodge.
I (nancy@pinehurstseattle.org) will attend the training as Pinehurst Community Council’s Adopt-A-Street leader, but others are welcome!
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