Paints, Auto Fluids
and Chemicals

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines hazardous materials as any substance that has one or more of the following characteristics: Reactive, Corrosive or Ignitable.  Hazardous waste is not only found in industrial locations.  Most people unknowingly have a number of hazardous wastes stored in their homes: in basements and garages, under kitchen sinks and in tool sheds.  Items such as paints, auto fluids and chemicals are considered Hazardous Household Waste (HHW) and should be disposed of properly.  Look for the words DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION on the labels or packaging of hazardous items. 

Why is HHW Dangerous?

HHW threatens human and environmental health. Flammable or reactive household chemicals may release toxic fumes or explode if they are mixed together, even in the trash.  Dumping solvents or oil into the sewer system, on the ground or into landfills contaminates ground and surface water, ruining drinking water and killing fish and wildlife.  Improperly stored HHW, like gasoline or paints, can pose a fire hazard, while corrosives, pesticides and other household chemicals pose potential health risks for children and pets.

Managing and Reducing HHW in Your Home
 
The most effective way to manage household hazardous waste is to AVOID ACCUMULATION.  Some products are difficult and costly to dispose of.  PREVENTION is the key to a safe home and community.  There are many alternatives to common HHW products that you can use in your home to keep your family safe.

Locations and Accepted Items

The CVWMA Safe Garage program was established to help residents properly and safely dispose of hazardous materials and liquids from the home.  Residents can properly dispose of a number of chemicals including automotive fluids and paint-related waste in the labeled containers located at designated collection sites.  On-site personnel are available to provide assistance if needed.  Not all sites accept all materials. Collection sites may accept the following (see the list of locations and call your city or county for more information):

oil-based paints	paint reducers
varnishes/shellacs	mineral spirits
stains and tints	turpentine
paint thinners	oil additives
lacquer thinners	various flammable solvents
polyurethane	leaded/unleaded gasoline
primers	gasoline additives

Hazardous Waste Handling Tips:

• Reduce the amount of hazardous products you use. Purchase alternative, non-toxic products.
• Buy exactly what you need.
• Purchase and use latex paint instead of oil-based paint whenever possible. Latex paint can be dried out using sand, sawdust, peat moss or kitty litter and disposed of in your regular trash. 
• Look for ways to share excess products (like paints) with neighbors, schools, civic organizations or theater groups. 
• Keep children and pets away from hazardous materials.
• Store hazardous waste products in their original containers in a cool, well ventilated area.
• Do not mix or pour hazardous materials together.
• Do not pour hazardous waste products down storm drains or on the ground.
• Do not smoke around hazardous waste collection sites.