The what and where of hazardous waste

Household hazardous waste

Depending on your city, it is possible to dispose of broken or burned-out CFL bulbs in special recycling areas at city libraries. Contact your health department for more information.Household hazardous wastes

The Salt Lake Valley Health Department defines a household hazardous waste as something that is "poisonous, flammable, corrosive or toxic." Here is a list of common wastes:

Electronics

CFL bulbs

Motor oil

Paint

Used car oil

Items with mercury, such as thermometers and thermostats

Yard-care products

Antifreeze

Used tires

Chlorine from pools or spas

Cleaning products

Did you know?

Compact fluorescent light bulbs have trace amounts of mercury.

Your old thermostat also contains mercury.

Smoke detectors are made with small amounts of radioactive materials.

Some businesses will recycle used electronics for you, but oftentimes, homeowners must pay a service fee.

Regular household batteries do not need to be recycled, but car batteries do.

Most household cleaners are considered toxic, but "green" alternatives are available. The Salt Lake Valley Health Department's Web site has a list of ideas for green cleaning products: www.slvhealth.org.

Resources:

If you live outside Salt Lake County, it is recommended you contact your local health department for information on where to dispose of any chemicals, electronics or other household hazardous wastes.

In Salt Lake County, information is available by calling 801-313-6700 or by logging on to www.slvhealth.org. Once there, click on the link that says "programs and services" and then scroll down until you see the link for "household hazardous waste."

Information about the disposal of medications and medical waste can be found at www.medicationdisposal.utah.gov/index.htm. You can also contact your local police department for information.

E-mail: nwarburton@desnews.com