LOUISVILLE, Ky.—May 23, 2014—Memorial Day weekend may be the time to open the swimming pool; but for trash truck drivers like men and women at Rumpke, it’s time to be alert for a new danger.
Pool chemicals are poisonous, flammable, explosive and—understandably—people don’t want to keep them around the house. But even a small amount of these chemicals mixed with household waste in the back of a garbage truck can create a dangerous combination.
Across the country, garbage truck fires are caused every year by pool chemicals that are improperly placed in the trash.
Pool chemicals are considered a household hazardous waste, which requires special handling. Here are some tips for disposing of these materials:
- Check the label – A lot of household cleaning supplies contain dangerous chemicals. If the container is labeled with “Danger” or “Poison”, this is an indication of hazardous waste, and cannot go into your garbage can or recycling bin.
- Review your service guidelines – Check the guidelines provided by Rumpke or your waste and recycling provider. Review Rumpke’s guidelines.
- Research local options – Most local solid waste districts offer residents free disposal of household hazardous wastes, such as:
- Paint thinner
- Lawn and pool chemicals
- Batteries
- Florescent light bulbs
- Gasoline and oil
- Insecticides
Rumpke residential service may be delayed due to the holiday. Visit www.rumpke.com for a collection schedule and more information. Rumpke employs approximately 120 people in the Louisville area and provides waste, recycling and portable restroom services.
Rumpke Consolidated Companies, Inc. has been committed to keeping neighborhoods and businesses clean and green since 1932 by providing environment friendly waste disposal solutions. Headquartered near Cincinnati, Rumpke is one of the nation’s largest privately owned residential and commercial waste and recycling firms, providing service to areas of Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and West Virginia. Rumpke divisions include Rumpke Recycling, Rumpke Portable Restrooms, The William-Thomas Group, and Rumpke Hydraulics. For more information, visit www.rumpke.com.
###
MEDIA CONTACT
Sara Cullin
(513) 741-2617
