GIVE HOUSEHOLD HAZARDS THE HEAVE-HO!
While were pondering our resolutions and enjoying the start of a fresh year, Northwest fire fighters remind us that this is a great time to get rid of old paint, cleaners, and chemicals that could be hazardous around the house. From those of us who use a shovel to begin cleaning the garage to those of us with neatly organized shelves and cabinets, we can probably all find at least a can or two of mystery substance we know well never use.
There may be numerous materials in your house or apartment that could be dangerous in case of fire, or that could cause a fire if improperly used or stored. Fire fighters suggest that we check kitchens, bathrooms, washer/utility rooms, garages and sheds with an eye on getting rid of hazardous substances and storing usable products safely.
Common household items which are highly flammable include:
Most aerosol sprays, such as hair spray, furniture polish, and oven cleaner
Disinfectants such as toilet bowl cleaners
Turpentine
Oil-based paints
Stains and varnishes
Charcoal lighter fluid
Gasoline
Keep all flammable substances, away from heat and open flame. It is best to store flammable liquids in approved, labeled containers outside the home, such as in the garage or shed. Check to be sure that all combustibles are kept at least 36 inches away from heat sources, such as water heaters. Aerosol spray cans can explode with great force if they get hot. Tissues and rags that have been soaked in flammable liquids are also flammable and should be disposed of, or stored in closed, airtight metal containers.
Gasoline vapors can be ignited by a tiny spark. Refuel your lawn mower, after it has cooled, well away from buildings to avoid producing explosive gas fumes. It is recommended that you do not keep gasoline around your home, but if you must, store it outside your home, in an approved container.
Other household materials that are poisonous or that can cause serious skin burns on contact include weed killers, fertilizers, pesticides, swimming pool chemicals, and drain cleaners. Keep these materials in appropriate, labeled containers, out of the reach of children and pets.
You can dispose of your hazardous material at the City of Tucson/ Pima County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center at 2440 W. Sweetwater Drive, just north of the Motor Vehicle Emission Test Facility. Call the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality at 740-3340 for days and hours the Collection Center is open.
You can dispose of your hazardous material at the City of Tucson/ Pima County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center at 2440 W. Sweetwater Drive, just north of the Motor Vehicle Emission Test Facility. Call the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality at 740-3340 for days and hours the Collection Center is open.
For more information on household safety, call Northwest Fire/Rescue District at 887-1010 .