Hamburg is Latest Site for Expanded Syringe Access Program (ESAP)

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MEDIA RELEASE

From the Office of the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Gale R. Burstein

Date February 26, 2014

CONTACT: Mary C. St. Mary/Mary.StMary@Erie.Gov

Phone: 716.858.4941/ Mobile: 716.253.3925

Hamburg is Latest Site for Expanded Syringe Access Program

Town of Hamburg Police & Erie County Department of Health Team Up to Provide Important Public Service

ERIE COUNTY, NY—The newest secure drop-off site that accepts both expired or unused drugs and used needles was established recently in the lobby of the Town of Hamburg Police Station at 6100 South Park Avenue in Hamburg, NY.

“The Hamburg site now becomes our 13th dual kiosk location for the Expanded Syringe Access Program (“ESAP”)” states Dr. Gale Burstein, Erie County Commissioner of Health (“ECDOH”).  “These secure kiosks are monitored collection sites for needles, medical waste and unused drugs. Needles and sharps should be treated with the utmost caution in order to prevent unnecessary exposures,” said Burstein. “In addition, no one should flush medications down the toilet, thereby contaminating our drinking water supply, or leave them in their medicine cabinet where they could be stolen. These kiosks provide a safe way for residents to dispose of these potentially dangerous items in a way that is responsible and effective.”

“Residents now have a mechanism to dispose of unwanted medications when they need to, rather than let them accumulate in the home where they can lead to problems” stated Town of Hamburg Chief of Police Michael Williams. “Additionally, these kiosks will aid immensely by taking used needles, which are a danger to all, and safely disposing of them. This will lead to better health for all.”

The kiosks are funded through a grant administered by the ECDOH and maintained by the Sheriff’s office.

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