Got too much stuff bulging out of your medicine cabinet, office and garage? Is some of that clutter expired medications, electronic waste, or hazardous waste? This article was inspired by an email blast I received about the Safe and Secure Community Collection event on May 1 at College of the Canyons. As I read my email I wondered about those folks who don’t have a computer (like my parents) but who still have this specific clutter problem. The following information will not be new to many, but I hope by making it easily accessible, it will inspire you to do something about your recyclable clutter here in the Santa Clarita Valley.
Here are some specific Do’s and Don’ts:
Expired Medications: Don’t flush medications down the toilet or throw them away (even mixed with coffee grounds or cat litter, etc.) because they are very toxic and will make their way into the landfills and ground water!
Do drop off expired medication and narcotics in the three white containers located at the Sherriff’s Station at 23740 Magic Mountain Parkway (next to the library). You can contact Waste Management (661-259-2398) for information on their Sharps Home Delivery Program for Santa Clarita residents. For more information go to Nodrugsdownthedrain.org
Electronic Waste: Don’t throw your old electronic “anything” in the trashcan!
Do drop it off at the College of the Canyons on May 1 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you miss this date, you can check the programs at the following stores: Office Depot; you can buy “tech recycling boxes” in three sizes; Staples gives store credit to recycle ink and toner cartridges; Best Buy will recycle many different items, ask for a list. Some Goodwill Stores will take certain e-waste items.
Hazardous waste: Don’t throw the following in your trash or drains: paint, thinner, turpentine, acid or lye cleaners, motor oil, antifreeze, pesticides, herbicides, pool chemicals, batteries or CFL’s (compact fluorescent light bulbs).
Do drop off batteries at: Valencia Library (661-259-8942 for times); Santa Clarita City Hall (661-259-2489); Canyon Country Library (661-251-2720); Newhall Community Center (661-286-4006). Drop off CFL’s at Home Depot on Newhall Ranch Rd. (661-702-9925) or Golden Triangle Rd. (661-252-7800). Other hazardous waste is periodically scheduled for drop off. Check with City Hall.
Properly recycling hazardous clutter will help preserve the environment and create more room to organize your useful items!
Barbara Ricketts is a Certified Professional Organizer (CPO). If you need assistance to simplify, de-clutter and organize, contact her at MessDoctor@Mac.com or call 661-433-7263.