The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), in collaboration with Anderson County Solid Waste, is clearing the path this October for residents to dispose of their hazardous waste without hitch or harm to the environment. The much-needed Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection event is slated to unfold in Oak Ridge, beckoning citizens to unburden their homes of toxic clutter safely and sustainably.
Residents are encouraged to gather at Oak Ridge Public Works Department at 100 Woodbury Lane on Saturday, October 5, From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., you can bring forth items like lithium-ion batteries, various cleaning fluids, pesticides, and those foreboding swimming pool chemicals. As Oak Ridge Fire Marshal Tony Grande firmly reminded, "Things like your leftover aerosol cans, paint strippers and thinners, and old medicines are considered flammable, toxic, reactive and/or corrosive and should be brought to this event to be disposed of properly," as per the City of Oak Ridge.
For those nestled amongst their automotive and marine products, uncertain of their potential risk - they too have a place at this event. TDEC will welcome with open arms each weed killer, rat poison, and even needles and sharps (packed up in a way that won't cause injury or a minor heart attack). However, heads up as there's a list of rejects that won't make the cut - ammunition, explosives, paint, and the usual lineup of office-outsider electronics.
Bearing safety in mind, when wrestling with paint-stained cardboard or newspaper-lined boxes to prevent a mess of spills on the way to the venue—strategically place away from playful pets and curious children. Grande advised, "When you're transporting materials to our event, be sure to place containers away from children and pets – in sturdy boxes lined with something like newspaper or plastic to prevent spills inside your car," as mentioned by City of Oak Ridge.
No need to worry—residential hazardous waste collection is free and doesn't require an appointment. It's worth noting too that residency in Oak Ridge is not a shackle for participation. Non-household sources such as businesses, schools, churches, or so forth, please dial (615) 643-3170.
