Household hazardous waste collection set

The county's Department of Environmental Services (DES) and the towns of Chili, Gates, Riga and Wheatland and the village of Scottsville have joined forces to hold an appointment only household hazardous waste (HHW) collection at the Gates Highway Garage, 475 Trabold Road, on Saturday, September 18 from 8 a.m. to noon.

Most HHW (paint, flammables and other chemicals from home-use) is safe when used and stored properly. When they become unwanted and are disposed of improperly, these household wastes can become environmental hazards.

To ensure safety and reduce waiting times, appointments are required at all HHW collections. Appointments for this HHW collection will be accepted until September 17. To schedule an appointment residents should call the Town of Gates Highway Garage at 247-2911. Waste from businesses will not be accepted.

Up to 30 gallons of the following materials will be accepted per appointment at no charge:

Oil-based and latex paint (for 1/4-gallon or less of latex paint: discard lid, add kitty litter, let dry, place can in trash)

•Wood stain and preservatives

•Automotive fluids (antifreeze; brake, power steering and transmission fluids)

•Pesticides and fertilizers

•Flammable products (gasoline, kerosene, thinners, strippers, solvents)

•Household cleaners (liquid soaps and waxes, drain cleaners, etc.)

•Driveway sealer

•Pool and photo chemicals

•Rechargeable (Ni-Cad) and button batteries

•Mercury (thermometers, thermostats)

•Syringes/sharps (safely packaged)

Do not bring: Propane tanks, used motor oil and vehicle batteries (contact service station or retailer); cans with dried paint, empty containers, everyday alkaline batteries, glazing/spackle and joint compounds.

If residents are unable to take advantage of this mobile HHW collection, the county's permanent collection facility is open (by appointment only) weekly. For information or for business waste disposal options, call DES at 760-7600, or go on-line at www.monroecounty.gov.