Safe waste disposal

SMITHVILLE — A community call to clean up safely is underway as Bastrop County gears up for its Hazardous Household Waste Clean Up event March 15.

The initiative, designed to help residents properly dispose of potentially dangerous household items, will be a comprehensive collection of household products this time around.

Officials caution that mixing chemicals and f lammable materials in standard waste receptacles can potentially release toxic fumes, lead to fires and contaminate the ground or water.

Accepted items include household cleaning products that are clearly marked and not leaking, batteries, de-greasers, drain cleaners, oven cleaning solvents, polishers and pool chemicals. The event will also collect aerosol paint cans, both latex and oil-based paints, preservatives such as varnish and poly, strippers, thinners and stains — vehicle batteries, herbicides, pesticides, pet products and other types of aerosol cans are welcome, as well.

Commercial waste or any items deemed unsafe or unidentifiable by staff will not be accepted.

The disposal site will be open from 9 a.m. to noon at 109 Taylor St. in Smithville.

Residents must complete a voucher to participate, available at the Bastrop County Development Services office, 211 Jackson St., Smithville City Hall, 317 Main St., or the Lee County Annex, 898 E. Richmond St. in Giddings. Online vouchers can be found at co.bastrop.tx.us.

Addresses provided on vouchers must be verified with a utility bill or driver’s license.

For more information, contact Bastrop County Development Services at 512-581-7176.