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Hazardous Waste in Your Home?

Surprisingly, may of the products we use in our home everyday are hazardous. If they are used, stored or disposed of improperly, these products can make their way into our water supplies - such as our lakes and streams - where they can be harmful to the plants and animals or even contaminate drinking water supplies or make recreational activities, such as swimming or fishing unsafe.

 How to Reduce the Impact of Household Hazardous Waste

There are many actions you can take to reduce the impact of household hazardous waste. The list below highlights a few simple steps you can follow to protect your streams and lakes.

TIP: Only buy what you need

Reduce your waste and save money by purchasing only what you will use.

TIP: Label it!

Keep unused portions in their original containers with labels intact and readable so that the product can be identified.

TIP: Store products properly

Store hazardous materials in a cool, dry place inaccessible to children and pets. Some chemicals may become volatile in warm or hot climates, or dry out to the point where they are unusable. You’ll save money, reduce waste and prevent accidental spills or exposure.

TIP: Follow directions

Use products in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions and follow all safe-handling requirements.

TIP: Give away extras

Offer surplus portions of products that are useable and safely packaged to others. For instance; offer pesticides to nurseries and paint to theater groups.

TIP: Dispose products properly

Properly dispose of household hazardous waste, because if it is simply land filled, it can end up vaporizing or leaking into our ground water. These wastes should be recycled or taken to a household hazardous waste drop-off site or event for proper disposal. Contact your local disposal center for additional information on proper disposal and hazardous waste drop-off locations and dates.

TIP: Use non-toxic alternatives