PURCHASING AND USING HAZARDOUS HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS

The Cumberland County Improvement Authority co-sponsors three Household Hazardous Waste Clean-up Days during the year. We would like to take this opportunity to remind residents about what they can do to help protect the environment and reduce the costs of the program.

Remember, household products you purchase that are toxic eventually require disposal. The improper disposal of household hazardous waste can cause problems for the entire community. Wastes can be explosive, highly flammable, or corrosive, and can lead to serious medical problems. One of the worst ways to dispose of hazardous materials is to just dump them down the drain. Wastewater treatment plants are not designed to handle certain types of hazardous wastes. In addition, household hazardous wastes improperly disposed of in landfills can pollute the environment.

When shopping, try to choose the least toxic products for your home. Buy only what you need to complete your household chores. Read labels carefully, they provide you with important information about the product such as ingredients, usage, storage, disposal, and hazards associated with the product's use. Always follow directions concerning the proper disposal of household hazardous products.

For information on the proper storage and disposal of household hazardous products, or for information on toxic-free alternatives to some hazardous household products, contact the Cumberland County Improvement Authority at 825-3700.