HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

The United States Environmental Protection Agency considers a substance hazardous if it can catch fire, if it can react or explode when mixed with other substances, if it is corrosive, or if it is toxic.

This definition includes many things that you probably are storing right now in your garage, basement, bathroom, or kitchen. Some, like paint thinner or car batteries, are pretty obvious, but there are many that you might not ordinarily think of such as polishes, insecticides and glues.

HAZARDOUS WASTE DANGERS

The improper disposal of household wastes can cause problems for the entire community. Wastes can be explosives or highly flammable. Sewers have exploded and garbage trucks have burned because people have carelessly discarded flammable or reactive wastes.

Hazardous wastes can also be corrosive. The acid from discarded auto batteries can eat away many substances. Some wastes are poisonous to humans or wildlife, while others can cause cancer, birth defects or other serious medical problems.

For more information on the safest way to dispose of these and other products contact your state's solid and hazardous waste department or the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Source: Water Environment Federation