Fullerton : Disposal Program for Household Chemicals

A host of seemingly everyday chemicals found in most houses can quickly turn into small toxic waste dumps if the materials are not properly handled or disposed of, say officials who will be providing a safe alternative.

According to the county Fire Department’s hazardous materials program office, cleaners, paints and varnishes, insecticides, fertilizers, gasoline, antifreeze, paint thinners and solvents, drain openers, toilet bowl and oven cleaners, and even furniture polish can be used safely when the manufacturers’ instructions are followed.

What those instructions rarely include, however, is how to get rid of the chemicals. And, fire officials point out, unused products become waste that may cause substantial injury or serious illness to people, domestic livestock or wildlife.

The usual method for getting rid of these substances has been putting them in the trash, pouring them down the drain or burying them in the backyard, say authorities. That can lead to ground-water contamination or even injury to trash collectors.

To avoid many of the problems and dangers associated with toxic substances, residents will have the opportunity to get rid of household hazardous wastes at a free disposal program Nov. 15. The disposal site at State College Boulevard and Kimberly Avenue will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For further information, including tips on how to safely package and transport hazardous chemicals, call the hazardous materials program office at (714) 834-8892.