Refuse Division

Most medications may be safely flushed down a toilet; however, large amounts of antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs may harm septic systems. 

Mercury is highly toxic. It is found in older thermometers, some batteries and other products. Avoid skin contact; store and transport in a tightly sealed rigid container.  Store liquid mercury for a household hazardous waste collection program or find out if a university or high school laboratory will accept it for recycling. 

The following information will help you in managing your household hazardous waste.

Always Consult the Product Label:

Labels provide information about proper use and alert you if the product is potentially hazardous.

Look for:

** Signal words – DANGER, POISON, WARNING or CAUTION.

** Statements of hazards – Flammable; Vapor Harmful; Harmful or fatal if swallowed.

Common household cleaning & maintenance products containing hazardous substances include:

• Kitchen & bathroom surface cleaners
• Oven cleaners
• Drain openers
• Disinfectants
• Bleach
• Carpet deodorizers
• Polishes & Waxes
• Air fresheners
• Ammonia
• Adhesives

Some of these products can be:

Common household products that contain solvents include:

• Paint thinners
• Nail polish remover
• Paint and varnish strippers
• Spot removers and degreasers
• Polishes
• Septic tank cleaners

Solvents can be toxic and/or flammable. Solvents or solvent fumes can harm skin, eyes and lungs. Halogenated solvents, those with chemical names such as chloro-, fluoro- and bromo-, can cause the most serious health effects. Some solvents may also cause serious environmental hazards.

Pesticides are chemicals that kill pests, including animals, plant, molds and insects. These are examples of household pesticides:

• Insect sprays
• Flea products
• Mothballs
• Rodent poisons
• Weed killers
• Wood preservatives

** NEVER dump unwanted pesticides down the sink or toilet, into storm drains, streams, or on the ground.

** NEVER use treated wood as firewood.

Common household paints include:

• Water-based: latex in general is the least harmful, but some older paints may contain mercury.
• Oil-based: enamel, lacquer, shellac, and varnish all contain solvents;
• Hobby or artist: these paints may contain solvents or heavy metals;
• Aerosol: spray paints contain solvents and propellants.

Leftovers

Automotive products that may be harmful include:

• Used motor oil
• Brake fluids
• Antifreeze
• Gasoline and diesel fuels
• Batteries
• Car waxes with solvents
• Carburetor cleaners 

What To Do With Leftovers

You may have products in your home that are to be disposed of properly.

User Fees are in effect - Recyclables are free…

The more you recycle, The more you save!

Composting

Composting conserves water, reduces reliance on fertilizers and helps you grow healthier plants. With little expense and effort, you can compost most food waste, yard waste, and paper waste. Small quantities of yard waste are accepted at some transfer stations in Cattaraugus County. Ask attendant for a composting brochure.