It can be difficult to find a safe way to dispose of used needles and other sharps. Individuals with diabetes and other health conditions that require use of needles at home are faced with high costs of disposing of their needles. The sharps disposal drop box offers them a safe alternative.
There has also been growing concern in the community regarding inappropriate disposal of used needles related to illicit drug use. Family members of drug-addicted individuals need a way to safely dispose of needles to protect the health and well-being of others in the household.
Ho-Chunk Nation Department of Social Services, 808 Red Iron Road, Black River Falls, has a large red, metal drop box located at the end of the driveway. Ho-Chunk Clinic Pharmacy, N6520 Lumberjack Guy Road, Black River Falls, will take needles free of charge and also provides containers free of charge to those who ask for them. There is also a red metal drop box located at the Jackson County Recycling Center, 115 Harrison Street in Black River Falls. All of the outdoor red metal boxes are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for drop offs. Ho-Chunk Pharmacy is available Monday –Friday 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Citizens who find used needles out in the community should not touch them as they may carry diseases or dangerous substances. If you find a used needle, please contact Ho-Chunk Police Department 715-284-2722 or Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, which has 24/7 dispatch service, to pick up and safely dispose of the needle.