SafeLink provides tips for needles found in melting snow

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on January 15, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

The local chapter of SafeLink Alberta has provided residents five tips if they discover drug paraphernalia on city streets or parks when weather conditions lead to extended snow melt.

SafeLink Alberta Medicine Hat shared the tips to its Facebook page that includes not panicking if discovering a discarded needle as it doesn’t always indicate increased substance use in the community.

“Needle debris uncovered under snow had likely been there all season or was washed up from freeze-and-thaw cycles,” states the online post.

Residents are encouraged to ensure children and pets remain away from the debris while noting the location that can be reported to SafeLink for removal. The Needle Debris Response Program operates Monday to Friday.

SafeLink also recommends residents get familiar with sharps bins located throughout the city, including Veterans Park and Batus Park, and used to safely dispose of sharp ‘medical waste.’

SafeLink also offers sharp bins and training on safely disposing needles and other sharp debris.

To report a needle or find out about training you can leave a message with SafeLink Alberta Medicine Hat by calling 403-866-4698, or over email at medicinehat@safelinkalberta.ca.

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