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Adult > Drug Info and advice > Keeping Safe

Keeping Safe

No drug use is risk or harm free, or without consequences, but there are practical things that can be done to reduce the harm caused by drug use.

We know that injecting causes major harm to drug users, and that the associated paraphernalia (such as needles, syringes, cooking up equipment etc) causes concern and potential harm to the wider community. By educating those who inject to behave in a responsible way it will help them to stay safe and reduce any potential harm to the wider community.

Keeping safe includes using clean equipment and disposing of it in designated sites.

This information is not aimed to encourage or condone the use of illegal drugs. However a harm reduction approach is the most effective way of preventing illness and death amongst injecting drug users and preventing harm and the impact of drug use on families, carers and the wider community. It also aims to promote the availability of treatment services if a person chooses to access them.

This section provides useful information to keep you well informed.

How Small is the Hepititus C Virus

So you think you are keeping your stuff clean?
Remember to not share any equipment if you are injecting. This includes water, filters and spoons. Things can look clean but there is always a risk that you can pick up Hep C or another virus.

How to Wash Your Hands

If you suffer from abscesses and/or sores it is worth watching this video as it could help to minimise the risk of further infections.

Note for Professionals:
If you have clients who suffer from abscesses and/or sores it is probably worth running through this video with them and could help to minimise risks of further infections.

Hand Washing Spot the Difference

Its sounds simple enough but keeping your hands and injecting site clean can save you getting sores and abscesses it only takes 15-30 seconds. Remember to use paper towel to dry your hands not a dirty towel.

Does Cleaning Syringes Work

Warning! This is not what you should be doing if you are an injecting drug user. You should always use a new sterile single use needle and syringe!

Injecting equipment is free and readily available from pharmacies displaying the needle exchange logo and many drug treatment services. For a list of available sites in Essex click here

The information in the video is an absolute last resort and not recommended for routine use. Used equipment will always carry a greater risk of infection to you and increased risk of vein damage. If you are an injector please ensure you keep enough new sterile equipment to last you until you can collect some more.

If you feel that this is your only option, you need access to clean cups or containers, clean water and thin bleach. You should keep your risks down by only re-using your own equipment

Adult - Essex Drug & Alcohol Partnership