Manchester Public Health Director Tim Soucy issued this memorandum to athletic league officials around the city on Friday, May 15, 2015 regarding the discovery of needles and syringes at city athletic fields.
Memo To: League Officials
From: Timothy M. Soucy, MPH, REHS Public Health Director
Date: May 15, 2015
Subject: Needles & Syringes
The City of Manchester is facing a dramatic increase in heroin use. An unfortunate consequence of heroin use is that needles and syringes are being discarded around the City, including parks and athletic fields. A needle stick has the potential to spread blood borne diseases such as Hepatitis C and HIV. The safety of our children is our top priority. In conjunction with the Manchester Police Department, Manchester Fire Department and Parks & Recreation Division we are asking you to do the following:
- If you see suspicious activity, please report it immediately to the Manchester Police Department at 668-8711.
- Prior to using an athletic field, walk around the area to check for needles & syringes.
- If you locate a needle & syringe, Do Not Pick It Up. Only trained workers wearing protective gloves should remove the needle & syringe.
- Cover the needle & syringe so that is not accessible and can be easily identified.
- If found during business hours (8:00 am to 5:00 pm), call the Manchester Health Department at 624-6466 and someone will come and remove the needle & syringe.
- If found after business hours or on weekends, please call the Manchester Fire Department at 669-2256 and someone will come and remove the needle & syringe.
Please post this notice in your clubhouse, canteen or other conspicuous place so that league officials, parents or volunteers will know what to do in the event a needle & syringe is found.
Thank you for your assistance in keeping our kids safe. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.
