KGMI News

BELLINGHAM, Wash. – The opioid crisis across the country may see an increase in the number of syringes being discarded.

The Whatcom County Health Department asked those discarding syringes to take some precautions with dirty needles.

Solid waste workers are seriously threatened by improperly discarded dirty needles.

Used syringes can be placed in a plastic two-liter bottle with a warning that says “DO NOT RECYCLE: CONTAINS USED SYRINGES.”

The sealed bottle should be placed in the garbage.

Needle clippers are also available at pharmacies.