A battery is an electrochemical device with the ability to convert chemical energy to electrical energy to provide power to electronic devices. Batteries contain heavy metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and nickel, which can contaminate the environment when batteries are improperly disposed of. When incinerated, certain metals might be released into the air or can concentrate in the ash produced by the combustion process.

The average person throws out about eight household batteries per year. About three billion batteries are sold annually in the U.S. averaging about 32 per family or ten per person. Most people own about two button batteries, and ten normal (A, AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, etc.) Because Batteries may produce potential problems or hazards they must be disposed of correctly. Many states have regulations in place requiring some form of battery recycling. California mandates recycling for almost all battery types. Take a look at this most helpful website to find out where you can dispose of your unwanted batteries:

http://www.ehso.com/ehshome/batteries.php

If you have been making changes around the house you may have rubbish that could fall into the Hazardous Waste category.

What is Household Hazardous Waste? The unused or leftover portion of any hazardous chemicals or materials. Any leftover household product that is labeled with DANGER, WARNING, TOXIC, CAUTION, POISON, FLAMMABLE, CORROSIVE, or REACTIVE is considered a household hazardous waste.

Examples are: Household Cleaners, Mercury Items (inc. thermometers & thermostats), Motor Oil, Oil Filters, Paint & Stains (latex & oil), Pesticides, Pool Chemicals, Propane, Solvents, Aerosol Cans, Automotive Fluids, Batteries (auto, household, & rechargeable), Computer Monitors, Televisions, Fertilizers and Fluorescent Lights - including tubes and Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs).

Unfortunately these items cannot be disposed of in a dumpster so if you have any of this waste to get rid of you should ensure it is disposed of properly at collection sites. This will protect you and your families health, keep water clean and reduce storm water pollution and preserve our environment.

There is a scheduled Household Hazardous Waste One Day collection scheduled this weekend!

Elfin Forest - June 13, 2009
Elfin Forest/Harmony Grove Fire Department
20223 Elfin Forest Road
Escondido, CA 92029
9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Otherwise the Household Hazardous Waste Transfer Facility is located at the Miramar Landfill entrance on Convoy Street, just north of State Highway 52.

The facility accepts household hazardous waste on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., except holidays. An appointment is required.

It is open to City of San Diego residents only. Call 858-694-7000, Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with your list of household hazardous wastes. When visiting the facility, bring proof of City residency such as a picture identification and a recent bill showing your address.

Need more info?

Visit www.sandiego.gov/environmental-services/miramar/hhwtransfac.shtml