Common household products that contain hazardous materials pose a safety problem when used or disposed of incorrectly. It’s important to follow a product's instructions for safe use. Improper handling of hazardous products may cause extreme danger to you, your family, your property, public workers, wildlife and the environment.

Products classified as "hazardous" have become so commonplace in most homes that many times we don't realize they can be dangerous to use and/or dispose of. Read the product's label. Key words like DANGER, CAUTION, WARNING, FLAMMABLE, or POISON indicate the product is potentially hazardous and requires special attention.

Tips for buying, storing, using and disposing of household chemical products:

Buying

• Read directions and all health warnings, i.e., if you have pets, make sure that product is safe to use around animals.
  
  
• Try to find the least hazardous product.
  
  
• Purchase child-resistant substances and packaging and buy only what you need.
  
  
• Try to find the least hazardous products.
  
  

Storing

• Store products tightly in original containers so you can easily identify the contents and refer back to the labeled directions for proper usage if needed.
  
  
• Regularly check containers for wear and tear and possible leakage.
  
  
• Store materials in a cool, dark place.
  
  
• Separate incompatible products.
  
  
• Limit the amount of chemicals stored and eliminate unused or unneeded supplies.
  
  
• Keep all household chemical products out of sight and reach of children.
  
  

Using

• Always read and follow the directions. Some products should not be used in confined spaces, others should not be used without gloves or eye protection to avoid physical contact.
  
  
• Use only the amount indicated and avoid splashing.
  
  
• Many chemical accidents are the result of trying to improve the way a product works by adding one substance to another. Avoid mixing common household chemical products as some combinations, such as ammonia and bleach, can create toxic gases.
  
  
• Take breaks frequently for fresh air and never smoke while using any household chemical.
  
  

Did You Know? You can use non-hazardous materials in many cleaning and stain removal tasks. These products include baking soda, cornstarch, lemon juice, soap & water, steel wool and vinegar - just to name a few. Give them a try!

Disposing

• There are several ways you can dispose of hazardous household products. Options include using the entire supply, recycling unused portions, taking unused supplies to a household collection event or donating unused supplies to a local group or organization that may have a need for them.
  
  
• For more information on Household Hazardous Waste disposal, contact the Western Placer Waste Management Authority Permanent HHW Facility at 916.645.5230, extension 4 or visit their website at www.wpwma.com.

Report Illegal Dumping
Our inspectors and maintenance crews are on the look-out for possible illegal dumping into the city storm drain system. Click here to report an incident of illegal dumping into a storm drain or call the Department of Public Works at 916.625.5500.