Many household hazardous products, such as oven cleaners, paint removers, pesticides, solvents and drain cleaners contain chemicals that are potentially harmful to both people and the environment. Improper disposal of HHW includes pouring them down the drain, on the ground, into storm drain or sewer systems, or in some cases placing them in the trash.

The dangers of such disposal methods may not be immediately obvious; however, improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health. The chemicals that are found in hazardous waste can contaminate our air, water, and possibly the food we eat if disposed of improperly. Furthermore, throwing such waste in the garbage exposes additional hazards to the garbage handler.

EXAMPLES OF ITEMS THAT SHOULD NOT BE DISPOSED OF IN THE GARBAGE INCLUDE:

· Fluorescent lamps and tubes

· Batteries

· Computer and television monitors

· Electronic devices

· Mercury-Containing Items

· Household and Landscape Chemicals

· Paints and Solvents

· Motor oil and filters

· Tires

· Needles/Sharps

Four days out of the year, Stanislaus County, in partnership with the City of Turlock, locates a mobile Hazardous Household Waste Disposal unit in Turlock which accepts all types of hazardous household waste. In addition to these four days, Stanislaus County has a facility open every weekend that accepts hazardous disposal from all residents within the County and its nine cities. This collection is not only free of charge, but also provides an alternative to illegal dumping of hazardous waste.

The next HHW mobile collection event will be held May 12 and 13 at the Turlock Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility located at 901 S. Walnut Rd. The collection runs from 8 a.m. to noon. For more information on wastes banned from trash disposal visit: http://www.stancounty.com/er/hazmat/pdf/household-hazardous-waste.pdf

Or for more information on the free HHW disposal event, contact the Municipal Services Department at (209) 668-5590 or visit the website at www.CityofTurlock.org. Brought to you by the City of Turlock Municipal Services Department.

WATER CONSERVATION TIP #93

Excessive Water Use Penalty: Effective May 1, a $25 penalty will be assessed for monthly water use over 40,000 gallons. Penalty will be reflected on June utility bill. Visit the City of Turlock’s website for more information at: http://ci.turlock.ca.us/watersewergarbageservice/waterconservation/onlinewaterconservationcourse.asp