You’ll have three opportunities this year to get rid of unwanted paint, solvents, cleaning products, batteries and more.
Mt. Lebanon is hosting household hazardous waste collection events from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., on April 6, June 8 and August 10, at the public works facility, 1250 Lindendale Drive. Registration is required. Rates for materials vary. No cash, credit cards only. Rates and registration information are at www.nobleenviro.com [1].
Items accepted include, but are not limited to, ammonia-based cleaners, furniture polish, insecticides, oven cleaners, disinfectant, nail polish and remover, herbicide, antifreeze, brake fluid, kerosene, metal polish with solvent, motor oil, transmission fluid, windshield washer solution, latex, oil and water-based paints, turpentine and paint thinner, mercury, pool chemicals, rust remover, varnish, fiberglass epoxy, glue, household batteries, mercury batteries, lighter fluid, mothballs and shoe polish.
The Pennsylvania Resources Council has some tips on the use, storage and disposal of household hazardous waste:
Avoid suspect products Be wary of labels with the words caustic, corrosive, danger, explosive, poison, flammable, toxic, or warning especially if pregnant or nursing.
Reduce consumption Only purchase the amount of product needed for a job.
Use products safely Follow label directions on how to use and recommended amounts. Use safety equipment such as gloves, protective eyewear or ventilating fans when the label recommends avoiding skin and eye contact or inhalation of vapors
Store products safely Keep in original containers with readable labels. Close lids tightly and store hazardous products in a cool, dry area away from children, animals and food products.
Prevent explosions and dangerous combinations Store products away from heat, sparks and flames. Separate flammables, corrosives and poisons, and place on separate shelves. If a product’s container is deteriorating, place the entire container in a plastic bucket with a tight-fitting lid. Surround it with a non-flammable absorbent, such as kitty litter.
Never dump household hazardous waste It should not be burned, buried, thrown in trash or backyard, or poured in a drain or storm sewer.
Never let children handle household hazardous waste Teach children the dangers of chemicals. Keep emergency numbers near the phone. Poison Control Center central toll-free number is 1-800-222-1222.
Don’t mix household cleaning products Mixing different types of cleaning products, especially those containing chlorine, can produce very dangerous vapors.
Do not reuse containers for other purposes Don’t refill empty containers, even with the same material, unless the label recommends it. Once a container is empty, dispose of it. Follow label instructions about rinsing the container or wrapping it in newspaper.