Do you use and injection pen or other medical use syringes?
Gloucester Township Police reminds residents about the importance of safely disposing of used medical needles and other sharps. Whether you're using injection pens, diabetic needles, medical syringes, or other injectable medications at home, proper disposal helps protect your family, sanitation workers, first responders, and others from accidental needle sticks and potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
HOW TO SAFELY DISPOSE OF USED SHARPS:
- Use a Safe Container: Immediately place used needles, syringes, and other sharps into a strong, puncture-resistant plastic container with a secure lid. Never place loose needles directly into household trash or recycling bins.
When the Container Is ¾ Full:
- Secure the lid tightly.
- Seal the lid with duct tape.
- Remove or cover any personally identifiable information.
- Clearly label the container "DO NOT RECYCLE."
Dispose of It Properly: In New Jersey, properly secured household-generated sharps containers may be placed in regular household trash. NEVER place sharps containers in recycling bins, and Gloucester Township Police DOES NOT accept sharps in our Project Medicine Drop Box!
IMPORTANT SAFETY REMINDERS:
- Never use disposable water bottles, soda bottles, or bleach containers to store used sharps. These containers may not provide adequate protection against punctures.
- If you use a needle-clipping device, follow applicable state and local disposal guidelines when the device becomes full.
Improperly discarded needles pose a serious safety risk to sanitation employees, children, pets, police officers, and emergency responders. Taking a few extra precautions can prevent injuries and keep hazardous medical waste out of our recycling system.
Remember: CONTAIN IT. SEAL IT. TRASH IT. NEVER RECYCLE IT!
