Tox-Away Day effort set for Saturday at Putnam Fairgrounds

Spring is typically associated with cleaning out cluttered garages or storage areas. Spring cleaning can turn up all kinds of unused lawn chemicals, pesticides, old paints and stains, and maybe a refrigerator or stove that kicked the bucket over the winter.

So how can you get rid of potentially toxic or hazardous items in a safe way? Bring them to Tox-Away Day.

Putnam County Tox-Away Day is scheduled for Saturday, May 18 at the 4-H Fairgrounds, Greencastle, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. (rain or shine).

Tox-Away Days are annual events sponsored by West Central Solid Waste District that provide Putnam, Montgomery and Parke county residents with the opportunity to safely and inexpensively dispose of household hazardous waste (HHW).

Electronics such as computers, cell phones, DVD players, etc. can no longer be thrown in the trash. Residents can bring all electronics and appliances to these events for free (exception: $10 fee for TV's).

The district spends nearly $24,000 for each one-day event, so residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity by cleaning out thier homes and/or garages and bringing hazardous items to the fairgrounds. Hazardous materials, if disposed of improperly, can be dangerous to human and animal health and the environment.

When residents arrive, they will be routed to appropriate collection stations. The event is organized to get people in and out as quickly and safely as possible.

Residents are asked to remain in their vehicle as skilled personnel unload items. Expect longer lines between 8-9 a.m.

Persons may check the website at www.westcentralswd.com under "Tox-Away Days" for a complete list of items collected accepted and other event dates and locations, or watch for ads in your local newspaper.

Residents may call the district office with specific questions at 800-211-2750.

The program is designed for residents only. Businesses will be prohibited from participating.