Much of the litter washed into the waterways does not break down . This litter is ugly and dangerous . Broken glass and shattered plastic can result in cuts and wounds which can become infected , especially if the water quality is poor . Diseases can spread to people directly and indirectly as contaminated water enters the food chain . There is also a cost to local governments and to taxpayers , when systems must be cleaned and repaired and health issues must be treated .
Litter Prevention Tips How can you become part of the solution ? Follow these simple tips :
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Don ’ t litter -- put trash in an appropriate receptacle . |
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If you see litter , pick it up and throw it away . |
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Recycle . |
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Participate in local clean up days . |
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If you see an area that needs to be cleaned up , report it to the appropriate government agency . |
To report a litterer , call 817.459.6777 or visit www . dontmesswithtexas . org
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE ( HHW )
Leftover household products that contain corrosive , toxic , ignitable , or reactive ingredients are considered to be " household hazardous waste " or " HHW ." Products , such as paints , cleaners , oils , batteries , and pesticides , that contain potentially hazardous ingredients require special care when you dispose of them .
Improper disposal of household hazardous wastes can include pouring them down the drain , on the ground , into storm sewers , or in some cases putting them out with the trash . The dangers of such disposal methods might not be immediately obvious , but improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health .
Certain types of HHW have the potential to cause physical injury to sanitation workers , contaminate septic tanks or wastewater treatment systems if poured down drains or toilets , and present hazards to children and pets if left around the house . To avoid the potential risks associated with household hazardous wastes , it is important that people always monitor the use , storage , and disposal of products with potentially hazardous substances in their homes .
HHW Tips
�� Use and store products containing hazardous substances carefully to prevent any accidents at home . Never store hazardous products in food containers ; keep them in their original containers and never remove labels . Broken and leaky containers should be placed in a second container of like material ( i . e . glass for corrosives , metal for flammables ).
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When leftovers remain , never mix HHW with other products . Incompatible products might react , ignite , or explode , and contaminated HHW might become unrecyclable .
Remember to follow any instructions for use and disposal provided on product labels .