Household Hazardous Waste

If you think that all trash is the same, you're wrong.  While most trash can be disposed of in a normal trash barrel, there is a kind of trash that requires special handling.  It's called hazardous waste. 

Household hazardous waste is usually created through household chores that require the use of products containing hazardous components. Such products may include paints, cleaners, stains and varnishes, car batteries, motor oil, and pesticides. 

Every year, Americans produce 1.6 million tons of household hazardous waste.  Unfortunately, many people do not know how to properly dispose of it, so these dangerous chemicals can accumulate in people's basements and garages.  Having these dangerous substances around poses serious risks including fire and poisoning. 

When people dispose of household hazardous waste improperly, they can contaminate their living quarters and the environment.  People often make the mistake of pouring wastes down the drain, on the ground, into storm sewers, or putting them out with the trash.  Although they may not know it, this is extremely risky.  Certain types of household hazardous wastes can cause injury or illness to sanitation workers, contaminate septic or water tanks if poured down drains or toilets, and present hazards to children and pets if left around the house.

Reduce and Reuse
Hazardous waste is difficult to dispose of, and it will inevitably hurt someone or something, whether it is a person, an animal, or the environment.  For this reason, it is important that people make an effort to reduce the amount of hazardous waste produced.  When performing household chores that require potentially hazardous materials, use the minimum amount required.  When you're finished, give the excess to neighbors, small businesses, or charities.  Many of these groups will be happy to receive items like paint, pesticides, and cleaners, which can be very expensive.  Also, bring your car batteries and leftover oil to auto part stores for recycling.

Dispose Safely
When using chemicals, you risk fires, skin irritations, poisoning, and blindness, among many other dangers.  Take care when storing and disposing of household hazardous waste to prevent injury and contamination. 

Never store hazardous products in food containers.  Children may find them and ingest something toxic thinking that it's edible, as the package says.  You should always keep products containing hazardous materials in their original containers and never remove the labels.  The only exception to this rule is when the container is coming apart.  In this case, replace the container, but be sure to label it clearly with warnings and all.

You can usually find instructions for disposal on the label of most hazardous products.  Always follow them carefully.  Lastly, you may want to research local collection programs for household hazardous waste.  Many communities have them -- they're convenient and they ensure the safety of you, your family, and your neighbors.