The Board of Commissioners for St. Mary's County, through the Department of Public Works & Transportation, Solid Waste Division, will sponsor its annual Household Hazardous Waste Day events this year on November 12, 2005, and December 10, 2005, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the St. Andrews Landfill, 44825 St. Andrews Church Road, California, Maryland, 20619.
Many common household products contain hazardous substances. These products become household hazardous waste (HHW) once the consumer no longer has any use for them. The average U.S. household generates more than 20 pounds of HHW per year. As much as 100 pounds can accumulate in the home, often remaining there until the residents move or do an extensive clean out.
County residents are encouraged to clean out their barns, basements, sheds, garages, kitchen sinks, etc. and take advantage of the opportunity to properly discard the toxics that have been lurking in and around their homes. These toxins include pharmaceuticals, disinfectants, paint (all kinds), stains and polish, solvents and thinners, caustic cleaners (for toilets, tile masonry, ovens, etc.), pool chemicals, lawn care chemicals, pet care chemicals, pesticides, fungicides and herbicides, batteries (all kinds), thermometers, thermostats, fluorescent light bulbs (all contain mercury), aerosol cans, old gasoline, kerosene, and other fuels (even mixed with water) will be collected.
Also, the Department of Public Works & Transportation, Solid Waste Division, offers packets of "Waster Paint hardener" as part of the Household Hazardous Waste Program. Waste Paint Hardener, once added to left over latex water based paint, will cause the paint to harden, making it possible to dispose of unwanted latex paint at the Convenience Centers or the St. Andrews Landfill. One packet will harden up to 2/3 of a gallon of paint. Packets are available at the St. Andrew's Landfill and the six Convenience Centers. Waster Paint Hardener is not intended for oil alkyd paints. Oil based paint must be brought to the St. Andrews Landfill during Household Hazardous Waste Day Events.
For more information, visit the St. Mary's County Solid Waste/Recycling Website at www.co.saint-marys.md.us/dpw/swprog or call the Department of Public Works & Transportation at (301) 863-8400.