A CAMPAIGN to educate people on what do if they find discarded needles has been launched by Carmarthenshire Council.

The council and Tidy Towns are working with the Community Safety Partnership to keep the county clean and safe.

Hotspot areas are being targeted by Tidy Towns cleansing operatives who have been given special sharps handling kits. It is part of the wider Clean up Carmarthenshire campaign.

Any discarded needles should be reported immediately so that it can be removed safely and quickly. Do not touch it or attempt to remove the needle yourself.

Executive Board Member for Community Safety Cllr Pam Palmer said: “Discarded hypodermic needles and syringes can be a danger because of the risk of injury and infection; so it is important not to touch it. Phone the council immediately so that one of our cleansing operatives can remove it safely.”

Discarded needles can be found in many places but are most commonly found in parks, recreational areas, public buildings, car parks and vacant properties. They may also be found in litter bins, cardboard boxes and bin bags.

The council’s Grounds Maintenance team are also carrying out regular checks across the county – particularly at known hotspots – and are working with police to pass on information.

To report discarded needles, or for more advice on safe disposal, call Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567.

If you do pierce or puncture your skin with a used needle, please follow this advice: Encourage the wound to bleed, ideally by holding it under running water Wash the wound using running water and plenty of soap (but do not scrub it) Don’t suck the wound Dry the wound and cover it with a waterproof plaster or dressing Seek urgent medical advice - go to the nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department.