Many household hazardous products such as oven cleaners, paint removers, pesticides, solvents and drain cleaners that are potentially harmful to both people and the environment. Improper disposal of HHW includes pouring them down the drain, on the ground, into storm drain or sewer systems, or, in some cases, placing them in the trash.   The dangers of such disposal methods may not be immediately obvious; however, improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health. The chemicals that are found in hazardous waste can contaminate our air, water, and possibly the food we eat if disposed of improperly. Furthermore, throwing such waste in the garbage exposes additional hazards to the garbage handler.

Examples of items that should not be disposed of in the garbage include:

·         Fluorescent lamps and tubes

·         Batteries

·         Computer and television monitors

·         Electronic devices

·         Mercury-containing items (i.e. fluorescent light bulbs)

·         Household and landscape chemicals

·         Paints and solvents

·         Motor oil and filters

·         Tires

·         Needles/sharps

Four days out of the year Stanislaus County, in partnership with the City of Turlock, provides a temporary Household Hazardous Waste Disposal event in Turlock which accepts all types of hazardous household waste. In addition to these four days, Stanislaus County has a facility open every weekend that accepts hazardous disposal from all residents within the County and its nine cities. This collection is not only free of charge, but also provides a better solution to illegal dumping of hazardous waste.

For calendar year 2019, HHW mobile collection events will be held in Turlock at the Turlock Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility located at 901 S. Walnut Rd. on the following days: May 10, May 11, Oct. 25 and Oct. 26. The collection runs from 8 a.m. to noon. 

For more information on wastes banned from trash disposal visit: http://www.stancounty.com/er/hazmat/pdf/household-hazardous-waste.pdf Or for more information on the free HHW disposal events, contact the Municipal Services Department at (209) 668-5590. Brought to you by the City of Turlock Municipal Services Department.

WATER CONSERVATION TIP

Remember to set irrigation system timers to correspond with the appropriate city watering schedule.  Effective March 1 through Oct. 31, even numbered homes may water on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and odd numbered homes may water Wednesdays and Sundays. Allowed watering times are before 9 a.m. and after 7 p.m.