Sheboygan Waters

Control - The best line of defense is to prevent materials and debris from entering the storm drain via procedural methods or "good housekeeping."

Contain - Isolate your work area to prevent discharges from leaving the site.

Capture - Clean up the work area by sweeping or vacuuming up any residue pollutants that have the potential to be discharged. Properly dispose of the residue , and check with the manufacturer for disposal requirements.

Household Hazardous Materials

We store many hazardous materials and chemicals are routinely stored in our homes and garages. When handled improperly, these products can be toxic to people and wildlife. 

Follow these important steps to make sure you maintain a  safe and environmentally friendly home.

 

For Home Repair and Improvement Projects

  • Before beginning an outdoor project, locate the nearest storm drains and protect them from debris and other materials.
  • Sweep up and properly dispose of construction debris such as concrete and mortar.
  • Use hazardous substances like paints, solvents, and cleaners in the smallest amounts possible, and follow the directions on the label.
  • Clean up spills immediately, and dispose of the waste safely.
  • Store substances properly to avoid leaks and spills.
  • Purchase and use nontoxic, biodegradable, recycled, and recyclable products whenever possible.
  • Use latex paint instead of oil-based paint. This also eliminates the need for paint thinner.
  • Instead of buying stripping solvents, do as much as possible with sandpaper and buy citrus oil stripper if needed.
  • When preparing your house for painting, collect paint chips and dispose of them in the trash
  • Clean paint brushes in a sink, not outdoors. Filter and reuse paint thinner when using oil-based paints. Properly dispose of excess paints through a household hazardous waste collection program, or donate unused paint to local organizations.

 

Keeping Pests Out of the Home with Fewer Pesticides

  • Learn about pests and pest management by reading books or by contacting a pest control expert.
  • Read labels and use as directed.
  • Store pesticides in covered containers.
  • Have bees, and other insects properly identified before applying a pesticide.

 

Disposal Sites

  • Use rechargeable batteries instead of alkaline disposables. Recycle rechargeable batteries at the sites listed on 1-800-8BATTERY.
  • Dispose of hazardous wastes at designated waste disposal sites. Follow the link to Information about Sheboygan Counties Household Hazardous Waste Flyer for waste disposal locations and times of operation or search www.cleanup.org for other locations.