There are products in your house right now you use regularly that are hazardous waste. These materials need to be used properly, stored properly and disposed of properly. What is hazardous? Materials that are considered hazardous have the following characteristics: 
 

• Toxic: cause health problems for humans or wildlife. (Example: Pesticides)
• Flammable/Ignitable: catch fire easily. (Example: gasoline, paint thinner). 
• Corrosive: eat away at other materials. (Example: strong acids or gases, drain cleaner). 
• Reactive: react violently with other chemicals or even air, water, shock or friction. (Example: pool chemicals, chlorine bleach). 

The best practice for hazardous waste is to purchase only what you need and use the product for its intended use until the container is empty. In those cases where there is material leftover, the product may be disposed of with your regular trash.

For further information concerning hazardous materials please call the Centre County Extension office at 355-4897 or the Centre County Department of Emergency Management at 355-6745. If you have questions about industrial hazardous waste call the Department of Environmental Protection at (717) 327-3636.

Batteries:                                 

    Not all batteries are the same, so they need to be

    disposed of differently. Alkaline batteries, used mostly in

    toys and flashlights, can be thrown away with your regular

    trash. Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cads) can be recycled. Drop off

    locations are at Radio Shack and Wal-Mart.  You may also

    bring your old rechargeable batteries  to the Centre County

    Solid Waste Authority's office.  Lead Acid, (automotive, motorcycle, etc.) should be taken to any store that sells lead acid batteries. If you are purchasing a new one, most places give a discount off the purchase of the new battery when you bring the old one in.

 

You can also bring your used batteries to Mid-State Battery located in Pleasant Gap.  For more information, call 238-2828.

Reduce for a Healthy Home 

A number of commonly used household products are actually very toxic and should be avoided. Additionally, many of these products raise serious health concerns around the house. These products can also cause problems for emergency responders should there be a fire or other emergency.