Recently, we've received reports of an uptick in a specific form of trash around Alamo Square: hypodermic needles. 

Last week, several needles and caps were found scattered around the bench near the dog play area, and members of the Alamo Square Playgroup have found needles within the confines of the playground. Our own visit to the park confirmed that needles and caps were readily visible in the area, and the issue was discussed at a recent Alamo Square Neighborhood Association meeting.

Although injection drug use is less common around Alamo Square than in other parts of San Francisco, the observed increase of syringes in Alamo Square is causing concern for residents and frequent patrons of the park. "The number of needles is unnerving," says Sunnylyn Thibodeaux, who organizes the Alamo Square Playgroup. "It's the city, I get it, and I don't expect us to be immune to these unfoldings of city life, but in my 13 years of hanging out in Alamo Square I never have seen or heard of such prolific needle waste."

We spoke with Katie Bouche from the Syringe Access Program, a branch of San Francisco's AIDS Foundation, who shared some insights into the why needles litter our parks. 

"There are reasons why someone may discard syringes improperly," she said. "One example is that folks living on the streets are constantly rousted and moved around by the police; this may make folks worried about carrying syringes on them (Ed. note: it is actually legal to carry syringes in San Francisco, just not to use them for illegal drug use). Another reason, is that shelters do not allow anybody to bring any syringes, used or new, into the building."

As for what to do when you encounter a number of used needles, Bouche recommends calling 311, which will dispatch Department of Public Works staff who are trained in correct methods for needle disposal. 

Syringe Access Services also currently conducts neighborhood clean-up sweeps in many neighborhoods in San Francisco, including around Duboce Park. For those who prefer to handle the situation themselves, Syringe Access Services is happy to provide community members with tongs and special sharps containers, which will be picked up when they're full. 

Bouche also says that the fear of catching HIV while cleaning up old needles stems from a bit of an old wives' tale. "Fortunately, HIV dies very quickly once it leaves the body, so the potential for exposure is very, very low," says Katie. "As far as I know, there is no record of anyone contracting HIV from a needle stick found in a public space."