Health department to begin picking up needles

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The Kanawha-Charleston Health Department announced Wednesday it is available to collect hypodermic needles if requested.

The department’s Division of Environmental Services will pick up needs found in public areas or other sites if contacted. The person who locates the needle has to provide their name, telephone number, the address of the syringe’s location and the description of the location.

According to a press release, representatives will respond to complaints within an hour “during normal business hours.” The person making the complaint may be contacted to ensure the location is explored. Photographs will be taken of the needle to document the site and location, and the needle will be disposed at the health department.

If a needle cannot be found after a search lasting at least 10 minutes, the investigation will be deemed complete.

Services can be requested at 304-348-8050.