Hazardous Waste

Hazardous household products are those that are toxic, flammable, corrosive, or if it reacts or explodes when mixed with other substances. You can tell if a product is hazardous if words such as 'POISON,' 'DANGER,' 'WARNING,' or 'CAUTION' appear on the label. Possible examples are oven cleaner, medications, spot remover, drain cleaner, paint, flea and tick powder, turpentine, household cleaners, metal polish, pool chemicals, gasoline, lawn and garden products, bleach, detergent and furniture polish. Care must be taken to properly use, store and dispose of hazardous products so that they do not harm people, pets and the environment. Toxic products carelessly tossed in the trash can injure sanitation workers, damage collection vehicles, or leak into the environment. Some products, when poured down the drain or on the ground, can damage plumbing or septic systems and pollute our water supply. Improper storage of these products within the reach of children or in unmarked or unsealed containers is a safety hazard.

Removing Hazardous Products

The best way to get rid of hazardous products is to use them up or give them away to someone who can. Since this is not always possible, suggested disposal methods follow. In addition, twice a year, the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District conducts the Old Paint and Pesticide Round-Up in which the City of Cleveland Heights participates.