In a move that benefits the community by providing a responsible way to dispose of medical sharps, the Charlotte County Fire & EMS announces that Fire Station 9 is now a drop-off location. Located at 17785 Curry Preserve Drive in Babcock Ranch, this station stands as the sole firehouse in Charlotte County accepting sharps for safe disposal at present, a convenient service available to those in southern Charlotte County and Babcock Ranch seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., according to a statement on the Charlotte County website.
The initiative provides a convenient location for residents to safely dispose of used hypodermic needles, helping prevent injuries and environmental hazards. Community partners, including the Rotary Club of Babcock Ranch, helped make this service possible. Acting Fire Chief Matthew McElroy said the service gives residents a safe and accessible way to dispose of sharps responsibly.
Needles should be placed directly into the red sharps container without clipping or recapping. When full, securely fasten the lid and bring the container to Fire Station 9 or another participating facility to receive a replacement at no cost.
The other locations in Charlotte County accepting sharp disposals include the Mid-County Mini-Transfer & Recycling Facility, open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. at 19765 Kenilworth Blvd in Port Charlotte; the West Charlotte Mini-Transfer & Recycling Facility, located at 7070 Environmental Way in Englewood, operating during the same hours; and lastly, the Punta Gorda Public Safety Building at 1410 Tamiami Trail in Punta Gorda is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Charlotte County Fire & EMS encourages residents to take advantage of this free and environmentally responsible program aimed at maintaining community safety. For further information, individuals can reach out to Ashley Turner at 941-833-5610 or via email at [email protected].
