- Pharmaceuticals often leach into groundwater and cause contamination of drinking water. Many counties and cities have a pharmaceutical and personal care product (PPCP) disposal program.
- Take advantage of your local landfill’s hazardous material collection day. Check with your county to find out when the next collection day is scheduled.
- Reduce your use of toxic materials by replacing them with less hazardous products available at most home improvement stores.
- Store hazardous materials in contained, safe areas. Containment prevents contamination of water supplies and protects lake water from undetected leaks.
- Dispose of paint thinners and other chemical products responsibly. Check the labels for proper disposal instructions. Do not pour them down the drain where they can damage water treatment systems, destroy septic systems and contaminate ground and surface waters.
- Allow unused latex paint to air dry in a well-ventilated place until it hardens, then put it in your garbage. This will help prevent toxic wastes from leaking into a landfill and eventually into groundwater.
- Allow used paint thinner and solvents to settle, then pour off the clear liquid and reuse. Air dry the sludge and put it in the garbage.
- Take used motor oils and petroleum products to a recycling or service station. These products and other toxic materials can usually be recycled. Never dispose of these products in drains or on driveways or roads.
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