Healthy Habits for Clean Water
- Recycle or properly dispose of hazardous household products such as insecticides, pesticides, paint, solvents, used motor oil and other auto fluids. Do not pour them onto the ground or into storm drains.
- Choose eco-friendly products. Purchase and use nontoxic, biodegradable, recycled, and recyclable products whenever possible.
- Reduce paved areas and increase vegetation in your yard. Use native plants to reduce the need for watering during dry periods. Direct downspouts away from paved surfaces and onto lawns or landscaped areas to promote natural infiltration and reduce runoff.
- Dispose of pet waste properly. Flushing is the best method. Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria and nutrients to wash into storm drains and local waterways.
- Keep yard waste out of storm drains. Do not blow lawn clippings into the street or down the storm drains. Instead, blow them back onto the lawn or into flower beds as free mulch and fertilizer.
- Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly. When necessary, apply only the recommended amounts and sweep excess material off streets and driveways. Avoid application before rainfall to prevent chemical runoff.
- Check for fluid leaks. Inspect your car, boat, motorcycle, and other equipment for leaks and spills. Repair leaks promptly. Clean spills with absorbent materials like kitty litter or sand never rinse spills into storm drains. Dispose of used absorbents properly.
Proper Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste
