Published in the September 10,2015 edition
NORTH READING — North Reading’s annual Household Hazardous Waste collection takes place this Saturday, September 12, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Spindler DPW Complex at Chestnut Street.
There is no charge to residents for any items but proof of North Reading residency must be provided as this collection is for town residents only.
A list of the items that will be collected is available on the DPW’s website at the Recycling link. The list also includes items that will not be accepted.
Clean Harbors recommends that materials be left in their original containers with caps or lids tightened. Residents should use sturdy boxes and pack oil paint, pesticides and household cleaners separately. Materials should be stored in the trunks or rear of vehicles. Clean Harbors employees will remove the hazardous material from the vehicle.
Batteries are a typical waste residents have brought in the past. Clean Harbors will accept three types of non-alkaline batteries: rechargeable, lithium and NiCad. Alkaline batteries, like AAA or AA, and car batteries are not being collected.
Among items being collected are automotive fluids, swimming pool chemicals, lawn care products such as fertilizers, oil-based paints, paint thinners and strippers, stains and varnishes, polishes and cleaners, and mercury containing products (fluorescent bulbs, thermometers, thermostats).
Clean Harbors also will not accept latex paint, commercial or industrial waste, smoke detectors or other radioactive waste, infectious and biological waste, explosives (ammunition, fireworks), fire extinguishers, prescription medicines or syringes or propane tanks. Prescription medicines and syringes can be brought to the North Reading Police station for disposal. Propane tanks and car batteries are collected at the Special Collection in June.
To dispose of latex paint, homeowners can purchase a drying agent at a local hardware store. The dried paint and can can than be placed in the weekly trash. Kitty litter is another option.
