PORT HOPE, ON (April 28, 2025) – The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit, supported by Peterborough AIDS Resource Network (PARN) has launched a community-wide awareness campaign aimed at promoting the safe disposal of harm reduction sharps. These include needles, glass bowl pipes and other items that may become harmful when broken or discarded improperly.

With the arrival of spring, people may come across discarded needles and other sharps in public spaces. The ‘Safe Disposal. Safer Communities’ campaign coincides with this seasonal shift and community cleanup efforts as a proactive step to encourage safe handling and disposal of these supplies.  

“Disposing of sharps in the right place is essential to maintaining welcoming public spaces for everyone,” says Kate Hall, Health Promoter with the HKPR District Health Unit. “Our goal is to encourage community involvement in safe cleanup efforts and respond to concerns regarding discarded sharps and other harm reduction supplies in public spaces.”

The initiative focuses on increasing public understanding of how to safely handle sharps when found, how to report them if unable to manage disposal independently, and where to access proper disposal locations. These may include select pharmacies, outreach partners, community sharps disposal bins, and most health unit offices. 

“This initiative is about supporting everyone, reducing harm, and fostering compassion and understanding in our shared spaces,” says Dane Record, Executive Director at PARN. “Improperly discarded supplies are the exception—not the norm.” 

The Health Unit and its partners have developed educational materials, including videos, for community groups, businesses, and residents who may encounter discarded sharps in their neighborhoods or workplaces. By offering practical tools, this initiative aims to reduce stigma and promote individual action. 

“We can all support this initiative by learning how to handle and dispose of sharps properly, and by becoming familiar with the local supports available,” adds Rachel Staines, Public Health Nurse with the HKPR District Health Unit. "Residents are reminded to not to call 9-1-1 to pick-up discarded needles or sharps. Instead follow the safe handling steps to properly dispose of the items, contact PARN or other supports in your area."

For more information, including safe disposal tips and local resources, visit hkpr.on.ca/SafeDisposal or contact PARN for additional training opportunities by phone at 705-749-9110.

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