Oh, that's a common issue in cities! A broken public trash bin isn't something you should try to fix or dispose of yourself. Here’s what you should do instead.
First, don't attempt to move it or handle the broken pieces. Public bins are municipal property, and your local sanitation department is responsible for them. The safest and most effective action is to report it.
You can usually report a damaged bin through your city's non-emergency hotline, often 311 in many areas. Many cities also have mobile apps or websites for these types of service requests. Just note the exact location (e.g., "corner of Main St. and 5th Ave") and briefly describe the problem—like "metal bin is cracked and leaking" or "plastic bin is shattered."
If the bin is creating an immediate hazard, like sharp edges near a sidewalk, you might gently place some visible object nearby to warn others, but avoid touching the debris. The city's crew will come to safely remove the bin, clean the area, and install a replacement. They have the proper equipment and protocols for handling it.
By reporting it promptly, you help keep your neighborhood clean and safe for everyone. It’s the best way to ensure the problem is handled correctly by the professionals tasked with maintaining our urban waste systems.