What is HHW? Storage of HHW Disposal of HHW Alternatives to HHW - Home Alternatives to HHW - Laundry Alternatives to HHW - Garden Paint Batteries Household Pesticides Medications Oil Product Stewardship Quick Facts Tips

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The most effective way of reducing the risks associated with HHW is not to use the products in the first place.

Safe Management Methods

When you are finished using HHW, store them safely. All too often they are just put away on the nearest shelf and forgotten about.

This can be a recipe for disaster, because improper storage of HHW may increase the products' flammability, reactivity, and toxicity. Care must be taken on where and how HHW is stored in your house, shed or garage.

It is recommended that you keep an inventory of the kinds of HHW you have stored and where they are kept, so that in an emergency, this inventory will provide valuable information to emergency response crews.

Here are some tips on safe handling, use, and storage of HHW:

• Keep materials/substances in their original containers, or in a leak-proof container that is clearly labelled. Always close containers tightly when not in use.
• Check to be sure the label is legible and properly affixed to the container.
• Separate hazardous products from other products in your home.
• Store all HHW in a well ventilated place away from children and animals.
• Do not mix different HHW in the same container.
• Make sure that containers are not broken, corroded or leaking. Periodically check containers for deterioration/leaks.
• Never use chemical containers for other purposes.
• Never burn, crush or puncture aerosol containers.
• Store medicines/pharmaceuticals out of reach of children.
• Keep rags that have been used with flammable material such as paint remover, gasoline etc., in a sealed container away from heat, sparks and sources of ignition.
• Keep a working fire extinguisher in your home.
• Use products in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
• Do not eat, drink or smoke when using hazardous products.
• Never mix ammonia and bleach, or any products with these ingredients - it creates a toxic gas.
• Keep a list of all household hazardous wastes, which includes the name of the product and the date purchased.

If you cannot use the product or give it away, then take household hazardous waste to a local collection depot.