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 might not be immediately obvious, but improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health. The chemicals in improperly disposed of hazardous waste can contaminate our air, water, and possibly the food we eat. Furthermore, by throwing hazardous waste in the garbage, you can cause 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 a 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 accepting 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 from 8 a.m. to noon May 13 and 14 at the Turlock Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility, located at 901 S. Walnut. 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 #50
City of Turlock watering schedule: The City of Turlock has a year round water conservation program, based on an odd/even address watering schedule. City staff responds to complaints regarding water wasting and outdoor landscape watering is limited to two days per week throughout the city.
