Police are reminding residents to use Skipton's knife surrender bin correctly after rubbish left inside created a potential safety risk.
The knife surrender bin allows people to safely dispose of unwanted knives and bladed articles, with officers welcoming the number of people making use of the facility.
However, North Yorkshire Police is urging people not to use the bin for general waste after cardboard packaging was found mixed in with surrendered knives.
Officers said that when the bin was opened, the cardboard shifted and caused knives to fall out, creating an unnecessary safety risk.
Residents are being asked to only deposit knives and other bladed articles in the bin.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said:
"We're pleased to see so many people making use of the knife surrender bin in Skipton to safely dispose of unwanted knives and bladed articles.
"Every knife surrendered is one less potentially dangerous item in circulation, helping to keep our communities safe.
"However, we would like to remind everyone that the knife bin is only for knives and bladed items.
"Please do not place cardboard, packaging, or any other rubbish in the bin. Please do not use the knife bin as a general waste bin.
Police also advise people to safely wrap or cover sharp edges when transporting knives to the surrender bin where possible, before removing and disposing of any cardboard or packaging separately.
The spokesperson added:
"If possible, safely wrap or cover sharp edges when transporting knives to the surrender bin.
"Remove and dispose of any cardboard or packaging separately before placing the knife into the bin. Only deposit knives and bladed articles in the surrender bin.
"Thank you to everyone who continues to use the knife bin responsibly and helps us make Skipton a safer place to live, work and visit."
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