Household hazardous waste to be collected

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CNLogo1BETHLEHEM — A Household Hazardous Waste and Paint Collection Day is scheduled for 10 area towns, including Beacon Falls and Naugatuck, on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bethlehem Highway Garage, 28 Main Street South.

The event is sponsored by the Council of Governments of the Central Naugatuck Valley and participating towns. There is no charge to residents. Proof of residency, such as a driver’s license, tax bill, or other identification, is required for entrance.

Household hazardous wastes are any wastes produced in the home that are poisonous, flammable, reactive, or corrosive. These wastes are harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. The goal of the program is to keep potentially hazardous waste out of local landfills and sewers, providing extra protection for wetlands and waterways. In addition, residents may now bring latex (water-based) paint to the collection event for the first time. While not considered hazardous waste, the latex paint will be accepted as part of a new statewide product stewardship program.

Examples of wastes that will be accepted include: thermometers and thermostats containing mercury, drain and oven cleaners, upholstery cleaners, oil or lead-based paint (alkyd), wood cleaners, strippers and varnishes, pesticides, poisons, pool and photo chemicals, automotive cleaners and fluids, grease and rust solvents, aerosols, and metal polishes.

Items that will not be accepted include: latex paint (water-based), auto batteries, motor oil, propane tanks, compressed gas cylinders, asbestos, smoke detectors, explosives, radioactive or medical waste, grout, joint compound, and empty containers of any kind.

The contractor reserves the right to reject additional materials. Up to 50 lbs. of residential waste will be accepted per vehicle. Residents should leave materials in the original container whenever possible.

For more information, Beacon Falls residents can call the public works garage at (203) 729-6978. Naugatuck residents can call Sheila Baummer at (203) 720-7073 for more information.