By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

SEESAWS, swing sets and slides – all things families expect to see on the grounds of local parks.

Injection needles don’t normally fall into that category.

Latrobe City Council has received reports of an environmental hazard at Apex Park in Moe.

On Monday, the council team actively worked on a clean-up operation in the barbecue and playground area due to syringes being found.

For the safety of all, council requested that people avoided the area until the officers and contractors completed the clean-up process.

The council post on Facebook garnered much attention, with one social media user sharing the post with comments of disgust.

“If you’re going to do that terrible sh** to yourself at least clean up your damn mess! Why would you leave that sh** at a kids playground? What is matter with some of you people,” they posted.

For those that do come across a used syringe in a public place, there are a matter of steps to take:

Don’t pick up the needles as it could lead to dangerous exposure, and;

Call someone to dispose of it.

If you notice a discarded syringe: Phone 1300 367 700. Give the exact address of where the syringe is, and describe nearby landmarks such as a phone box, public toilets, etc. Provide your contact details in case council need more information.

The Latrobe City Council recommends used syringes are handled by professionals only.

However, if you must handle one:

If you can, use tongs or protect your hand with a heavy duty glove or cloth;

Never touch the sharp end of the needle, only pick up the syringe by the barrel end;

Do not try to replace the cap on the needle;

Put the needle and syringe in a screw top, puncture proof, plastic container and seal it;

Tell children never to pick up needles or syringes, but to call an adult, and;

Do not put needles and syringes down toilets and drains.

Local needle and syringe programs are coordinated by Latrobe Regional Hospital. Phone the hospital on 5173 8000 or Latrobe Community Health Service (1800 242 696).

There are large capacity bright orange disposal bins located outside the entrance of each of the Latrobe Community Health Offices at:

42-44 Fowler Street Moe;

81-85 Buckley Street Morwell, and;

Corner of Seymour Street and Princes Highway, Traralgon.

Latrobe Community Health Services employ a Regional Mobile Drug Safety Worker who is available for assistance, education and advice on any drug related issues.

Latrobe Community Health Service can be reached on the above phone numbers during office hours.