Calhoun County is hosting two collection events this spring, allowing residents to safely dispose of household hazardous waste, appliances, electronics and scrap metal for free.
The first event is scheduled for April 27 at Bailey Park in Battle Creek. The second will take place May 18 at Ketchum Field in Albion.
Both events will run from noon to 5:30 p.m. and are open to all Calhoun County residents, according to a community announcement.
Items accepted at the events
The collection events will accept a wide range of items, including:
- Household hazardous waste: Oil-based paint, fuels (in fuel cans), solvents, acids, bases, pesticides, household cleaners, mercury (in a Ziplock bag), medications, sharps (inside a rigid, puncture-resistant container with a lid), household batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, motor oil, oil filters, antifreeze, propane cylinders (20 pounds or smaller), gas cylinders (no foam insulation), fire extinguishers, aerosol cans, PCB and non-PCB lamp ballasts, oxidizers, self-heating solids, flammable solids/liquids, toxic inorganics/organics, lighters, chlorophenols, lead, self-defense spray, peroxides, water-reactives, isocyanates and cyanide.
- Appliances and scrap metal: Stoves, washers, dryers, dishwashers, lawn mowers (fuel must be removed), metal patio furniture, metal railings, sheet metal, rims (no tires), metal fencing, metal doors, metal pipes and bike frames. Items containing refrigerant, such as air conditioning units, dehumidifiers, freezers and refrigerators, will not be accepted.
- Electronics: Stereo equipment, DVD and VHS players, projectors, gaming consoles, computers, laptops, Chromebooks, LCD and CRT monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers, scanners, servers, switches, routers, cellphones, iPads and tablets, iPods and MP3 players, e-readers, printers, floor copiers, fax machines, televisions (LCD, plasma, projection and CRT), microwaves, toasters, blenders, mixers, vacuums, lead-acid batteries, power tools (including rechargeable batteries), cameras, electronic toys, Christmas lights and wires and cords from electronic devices.
Participants will be asked to remain in their vehicles while staff and volunteers unload materials. This measure is intended to ensure efficiency and safety during the collection process.
Tips for participants
To facilitate a smooth drop-off experience, residents are advised to:
- Empty containers can be thrown away.
- Note that latex paint is not classified as hazardous; tips for drying it up can be found on the county’s website.
- Separate paint cans from other items.
- Pack items securely to prevent spills and use leakproof containers or tarps.
- Label any items that are not in their original packaging.
If participants want their gas cans returned, they may be asked to park and wait…