Illegal dumping of hazardous waste persists at 1.8-acre site

ILLEGAL DUMPING

On May 8, a pile of hazardous waste including paints and solvents was found at the 1.8-acre site. In mid-April, a similar pile of hazardous waste was found in the same area. Residents and contractors are reminded that hazardous waste cannot be disposed of in Leisure World, and must be disposed at a designated facility.

Leftover household products that contain corrosive, toxic, ignitable or reactive ingredients are considered household hazardous waste.

Products such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries and pesticides that contain potentially hazardous ingredients require special handling when residents dispose of them.

Residents can dispose of toxic waste at any of Orange County’s four Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers. The closest one to LW is the Huntington Beach Collection Center located at 17121 Nichols Lane, 92647, Gate 6.

It is open from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday (closed on major holidays and during rainy weather). Proof of county residence may be requested. People can also dispose of e-waste such as televisions, tablets, cell phones and computers at this site. All containers must have lids and be sturdy, non-leaking, labeled and protected from breakage. When appropriate, materials must be in original containers, except for motor oil, fuels and antifreeze.

Improper disposal of household hazardous wastes can include pouring them down the drain, on the ground, into storm sewers, or in some cases putting them out with the trash. The dangers of such disposal methods might not be immediately obvious, but improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health.

People who need special assistance with household hazardous waste collection and are unable to bring it to a center should call 714-834-4000 for more information about Orange County’s door-to-door service.

For more information, visit www.oclandfills.com/hazardouswaste.