Safe Disposal for Sharps and Medications

Sharps is the name for needles, syringes, and lancets. They’re a type of medical waste.

Because sharps can be dangerous for other people, there are some special rules you have to follow to make sure you’re getting rid of them safely.

What should I do if I see sharps on the street or sidewalk?

At Home

Step 1.Get a safe sharps container

We will pick up sharps with your trash, but there are some special rules you have to follow to make sure you’re getting rid of them safely. Never put sharps directly in your trash.

You may be able to get a container from your doctor or pharmacy that says “Biohazard” on it. You can find these at XX and ACR Health locations. You can also make one out of a plastic container, such as a plastic bleach or laundry detergent bottle. Make sure the container:

  • Won’t leak or shatter
  • Is strong enough so sharps won’t go through it
  • Has a screw top

Step 2.Put all your sharps in the container

Then you need to:

  • Screw on the lid and then tape over the cap so it’s secure
  • Write “Sharps” on the side of the container

Step 3.Put out your sharps container with your weekly trash

You can throw out 1 container of sharps each week. If you need to throw out more, contact Cityline at (315) 448- 2489 (CITY), or go to a safe disposal site.

Drop Off

Many places in Syracuse will let you drop off sharps and medications you don’t need. Use the Point to search for safe drop off locations.

Exchange

ACR Health gives vouchers for sterile syringes through its syringe access program. The vouchers can be redeemed for a Fitpack of 10 sterile syringes through the Expanded Syringe Access Program (ESAP).

To get vouchers and syringes contact ACR Health or visit:

Westside Family Pharmacy
216 Seymour St.
Syracuse, N.Y. 13204

ACR Health is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and closed Sunday.

 

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