Garland County household hazardous wast collection May 5

Residents can bring items to the first springtime Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 5 to the Garland County Fairgrounds at 4831 Malvern Avenue (Highway 270 East) for safe, free disposal of unused or leftover household products containing toxic, flammable, corrosive or reactive chemicals.

Fluorescent bulbs, electronic waste and passenger tires (no rims) will also be accepted for disposal. There will also be a re-use center for items that are still usable and stored in the original container with a legible label. The Garland County Sheriff’s Office will coordinate a prescription drug takeback during the event.

The event can help prevent hazardous items from ending up in landfills, sewer treatment, storm drainage or septic systems, streams and lakes. These products are also toxic, corrosive, flammable, and/or irritating to the skin. They can cause fumes and fires and can endanger animals and children if left improperly stored at home.

Items that can be brought to the collection event include automotive substances such as antifreeze or brake fluid; paints, thinners, strippers and solvents; household pesticides and herbicides; water-based cleaners and bleaches; compressed gas cylinders; old kerosene and diesel fuel. Electronic waste can include monitors, computers, keyboards, mice, VCR and DVD players, televisions 19” or smaller, electronic games and microwaves. Recyclable electronics are also accepted weekdays between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Regional Recycling Center behind the city sanitation office at 218 Runyon Street, off of Valley Street.

The event, sponsored by the Southwest Central Regional Solid Waste Management District, is for household quantities only. Hazardous waste from companies and businesses cannot be accepted. For more information, call the Hot Springs Sanitation Department, 321-6911.