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As residents begin to prepare for winter in Wisconsin, in addition to putting away the camping gear and calking the windows, it is important to consider proper storage of chemicals, paints, and other products that many homeowners have purchased throughout the summer season.

Do you know what products in your home are potentially hazardous and why? Are they properly stored away from children and pets, and kept from freezing or extreme heat? The Wisconsin legislature has declared the first week in October (4- 10) as Household Hazardous Waste Awareness Week in Wisconsin. Now is a good time to learn about the products in your home.

By reading labels on products that you purchase and following directions carefully when applying, storing and disposing of products, you keep your family safe, save money, and protect the environment.

Many communities offer special household hazardous waste collections, but these programs are expensive and should only be used for old, unusable paints, chemicals, pesticides, wood preservatives and other products that shouldn't be used up. To minimize waste and save tax dollars, homeowners should use water-based paints and sealers, buy only what is needed, and use up as directed or store properly. Remember to keep paints, sealers and other products from freezing and you won't have to buy more next season!

For local household hazardous waste program contact information click here.