Did you know that syringes and sharps (needles) are sometimes found in local parks and playgrounds?

a)Pick it up and take it home b)Pick it up and throw it in the bushes c)Leave it where it was and ask an adult to contact the local council What would you do if you found a sharp or a syringe in the community? Do you have your sharps card from I.M.P.S.? It reminds you what to do if you find a syringe or sharp C is the correct answer.

Some people use syringes and needles at home because they have an illness and need special medicine. E.g people who are diabetics may need to have daily insulin injections. These syringes and needles are disposed of carefully using special drums like the ones used in hospitals. These drums have hard sides so that the needle does not accidently prick you. Some people use syringes and needles to take illegal drugs and do not dispose of them carefully. These discarded syringes and needles are a danger to the public. You can catch an infection if you are accidently pricked. Useful information

The younger children in your school might not know about the dangers of picking up a syringe or a needle. You can catch an infection from a needle that has been used by someone else. Think about how you can help them to understand the dangers and know what to do if they find a syringe or a needle. You might like to design a poster for school or do an assembly for the younger ones.

Make sure you include these points in your assembly or poster (or anything else you do) 1.Check your playing area when you arrive as sometimes syringes and needles can be hidden in the grass and difficult to see. 2.Never touch a syringe or needle if you find one when out playing in case you accidently prick yourself. 3.If you find one, tell an adult and ask them to contact the local council 4.You might like to make a notice to warn other people or ask an adult to cover it with a cardboard box. 5.Keep your message short and to the point – use pictures if you can.

First aid for a sharp injury If you or someone else accidently pricks your finger on a discarded needle then this is what you need to do. 1.Squeeze the infected area to encourage bleeding so that the infection comes out. 2.Wash it in soap and water. 3.Go to the nearest health centre or accident and emergency department. 4.Make sure your GP is informed.

Thank you for joining the Sharps Team Let us know how your campaign goes we would love to hear from you.