Tulsa, OK

In My House?

You may not realize it, but your home is probably filled with all sorts of pollutants. Many everyday products such as paint and lawn chemicals can be dangerous if used or stored improperly, and can cause serious environmental damage if tossed in the trash, poured down the sink or washed into the storm sewers.

Some common household pollutants include paint thinners, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, pool chemicals, cleansers, acids, caustics, ammunition, batteries, motor oil, and antifreeze.

Do NOT throw these items, or even empty containers into regular trash. The improper disposal of household wastes can cause problems for the entire community. Wastes can be explosive or highly flammable. Sewers have exploded and garbage trucks have burned because people have carelessly discarded flammable or reactive wastes.

A few wastes are poisonous to humans or wildlife, while others can cause cancer, birth defects or other serious medical problems.

What Can You Do?

Reduce the amount of pollutants you generate, make sure you are storing and transporting such products properly, and most importantly, dispose of your leftover pollutants properly at the twice-annual Fairgrounds Household Pollutants Collection Event.

Before you buy a product, read the label and make sure that it will do what you want. Buy only what you need.

Read and follow directions on how to use a product and dispose of the container.

Use safer alternatives if they are available, or make your own (see our website for suggestions.)

Storing Your Pollutants

Keep substances in the original container and make sure the label is attached. If the container starts to leak, enclose it in a larger container, clearly labeled.

Maintain a list of stored hazardous products with the name of the product and the date of purchase.

Most items should be stored in a cool, dry place, but read the label for instructions. Keep incompatible chemical products separated. For example, accidentally mixed HTH chlorine and motor oil can cause a fire. Periodically check containers for deterioration.

If you are unsure of your storage situation, call the experts:

Fire Department Hazmat Unit: 596-1255; Tulsa City-County Health Department.: 582-9355; Public Works Quality Assurance: (918) 591-4378.

Household Pollutant Collection Event

The Metropolitan Environmental Trust holds two Household Pollutant Collection Events a year, one in the spring and one in the fall at the Tulsa Fairgrounds. Most and other residentially generated materials can be dropped off at no charge during the events.

Latex paint is no longer accepted because it can be disposed of with regular trash. For more information or the date of the next event, call the M.e.t. at 584-0584 or visit the M.e.t. website at www.metrecycle.com