Short Article or 60 second Radio PSA Written by Angela Dossett, Bluegrass PRIDE 866-222-1648 Hidden Household Hazards As you wrap up your summer home improvement projects, it’s important to realize that left over pesticides, fertilizers, deck stain and pool chemicals are hazardous products. They can harm your children, pets and environment if they are not handled, stored and disposed of properly. What can you do to prevent household hazardous wastes from harming your home and the environment? Reduce the amount of household hazardous products you use. Buy only what you need, and utilize non-hazardous alternatives such as cedar chips in place of mothballs or a mixture of mild dish soap and water instead of pesticides. When handling household hazardous products, make sure to read the directions and store toxics in their original containers. This will prevent misuse. Dispose of household hazardous waste properly. If you have leftovers, share them with your neighbors or donate them to your community. For example, donate extra paint to a theater group. Some hazardous wastes such as car batteries and motor oil can be easily recycled at most local garages. For more information on household hazardous products and disposal options in (county), contact (name and number).