Are hazardous wastes lurking in your home or garage?

We’ve all seen warning labels on cleaners, garden chemicals, paint products and automotive fluids using words like toxic, caution and danger.

These products can contain very harmful chemicals that can be poisonous if ingested, burn your skin or cause other serious health and respiratory issues, West Central Solid Waste District officials warn.

Hazardous and toxic materials should never be thrown out with regular household trash because they require special handling and disposal. Whenever household hazardous chemicals or cleaners are stored or disposed of, please remember to:

-- Always keep out of reach of children and pets.

-- Always follow label instructions and tightly seal to prevent leaks, fumes or spills.

-- Never burn hazardous materials or their containers which can create toxic fumes or fires.

-- Never pour hazardous materials down the drain, in the toilet or on the ground. These hazardous liquids can contaminate streams, lakes, fish or wildlife and even bath and drinking water.

-- Never mix hazardous materials together (which can create fumes or combustion).

-- Deliver unused or unwanted hazardous materials to an appropriate collection event such as annual Tox-Away Days (May, June and September) sponsored by West Central Solid Waste District.

Visit www.westcentralswd.com and click details under Upcoming Events for dates/locations or call WCSWD at 1-800-211-2750 with specific questions.