As we usher in the New Year, many of us are setting resolutions to live healthier and more organized lives. Whether it’s eating cleaner, or managing chronic health conditions, the start of a new year is the perfect time for change.
Sharp Resolutions
If you’re managing diabetes, weight loss, or blood pressure, it’s likely you’re using needles, lancets, or syringes as part of your health routine. However, it’s equally important to address how to dispose of those sharps properly.
Improper disposal of sharps poses significant risks not only to you but to waste haulers and sorting staff who handle discarded materials. Discarding needles, syringes, or lancets in your trash or recycling bin is not only dangerous, but it can also lead to injury or contamination.
This year, make it your resolution to dispose of your sharps safely. It's simpler than you think!
Stick to Safety
Here’s how you can dispose of your needles, and other sharps the right way:
- Use a Sealed, Puncture-Proof Container: First and foremost, always store sharps in a container that is both sealed and puncture-resistant. This will keep everyone, including waste haulers, safe from accidental pricks or cuts. You can find these types of containers at most pharmacies—they are specifically designed for biomedical waste. Alternatively, you can reuse a sturdy container like a bleach bottle or a liquid fabric softener bottle. Just make sure the lid fits tightly and that it's clearly labeled with “SHARPS” to avoid any confusion.
- Don’t Mix Sharps with Household Waste: Never place used needles in your regular trash or recycling bins. Sharps don’t belong there! By following the proper disposal method, you’ll protect those who handle waste on a daily basis.
- Take Advantage of Free Disposal Services: Did you know that you can safely dispose of your sharps for FREE at one of Orange County’s four Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers? Located in Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Irvine, and San Juan Capistrano, these centers make it easy for you to get rid of sharps in a safe and responsible manner. No need to risk injury or damage to the environment—just bring your sealed, labeled sharps container and drop it off at your nearest collection center Tuesday through Saturday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Order a Free Mail-Back Kit: One additional option for disposal is through the state's Sharps Stewardship Program. California residents can now order free mail-back kits through the program’s website. Simply visit SharpstakeBackCalifornia.org, request a kit, and either mail it back or drop it off at a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center for safe disposal. This is a convenient and cost-free way to manage your sharps disposal, especially if you’re unable to access a drop-off location.
Stick to Your Resolution!
This year, make the choice to dispose of sharps the right way.
For more information on sharps disposal visit OCRecycleGuide.com or to find the nearest Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center near you, visit OClandfills.com/hazardous-waste. Let’s make 2025 a year of safe, responsible disposal—because when it comes to sharps, safety comes first! Let’s make 2025 a year of safe, responsible disposal—because when it comes to sharps, safety comes first!
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