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Household Chemical Emergency
Nearly every household uses products containing hazardous materials or chemicals. Knowing how to handle these products and how to react during an emergency can reduce the risk of injury. Proper storage and disposal can reduce risks to responders and the community after a natural disaster or house fire. Common hazardous household items include cleaning, automotive, lawn/garden, woodworking, and painting products. Dispose of hazardous household chemicals properly by taking them to the El Paso County Household Hazardous Waste Facility located at 3255 Akers Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80922. This is a free service to El Paso and Teller County residents. A donation of nonperishable food items is encouraged. Be sure to check the drop off schedule in advance, as it is subject to change and may require an appointment. For additional information or to schedule, phone 719-520-7878 or visit communityservices.elpasoco.com/environmentaldivision/
Preventing Household Chemical Accidents
• Post the number of the emergency medical services and the poison control center by all telephones. • Limit quantity: Buy only as much chemical as you think you will use. Properly dispose of leftover materials. • Keep products containing hazardous materials in their original containers. • Never store hazardous products in food containers. • Never mix household hazardous chemicals or waste with other products.
Incompatibles, such as chlorine bleach and ammonia, may react, ignite, or explode. • Follow the manufacturer instructions for proper use and disposal. • Never smoke while using household chemicals. • Never use hair spray, cleaning solutions, paint products, or pesticides near an open flame. • Use rags, wear gloves, and protect eyes while cleaning up any chemical spill. • Dispose of household hazardous waste by taking it to the household hazardous waste facility.
Symptoms of Household Chemical Poisoning • Difficulty breathing • Irritation of the eyes, skin, throat, or respiratory tract • Changes in skin color • Headache or blurred vision • Dizziness • Clumsiness or lack of coordination • Cramps or diarrhea What to do if exposed to household chemicals • Locate the chemical container in order to provide requested label information. • Call 911 immediately if you are experiencing any symptoms. • Call the National Capital Poison
Center (NCPC) at 1 (800) 2221222. • Follow the NPCC emergency operator’s first aid instructions carefully. First aid advice found on containers may be out of date or inappropriate. • Do not take or give anything by mouth unless advised to do so by a medical professional.
APPOINTMENT MAY BE REQUIRED SCHEDULE ONLINE OR CALL Visit elpasoco.com
(Search “Household Hazardous Waste”) or call 719-520-7878 or 719-520-7879
