Yuk!

Remember Mr. Yuk?

He tells children that a product is yucky and bad for them. But how do adults know that a product is hazardous? A household can be filled with a number of toxic products that can harm children, pets, and adults.

How can you tell if a product is hazardous?

The law requires the following signal words on the label of household hazardous products:

• Danger or Poison (Highest hazard)
• Caution or Warning (Moderage hazard)
• Does NOT have any of the above signal words (Safest)
  

Read labels before you purchase household products. Choose the least hazardous product and purchase only the amount you need for the job. This will minimize the amount of harmful products stored in your home.

Follow the directions for safer use. Many household products direct users to wear protective gear such as gloves or eyewear or to use the product in a well ventilated space. These directions are important to follow in order to minimize health effects.

Store hazardous products safely. Avoid storing chemicals under the sink or near a well or wellhouse. Also, keep household hazardous products away from children, pets, food, heat, and flames. Always store chemicals sealed in their original containers. Place containers inside an old tub or bucket so any drips or leaks are captured. Never put chemicals in food containers.

Dispose of unwanted chemicals at HazoHouse. Drive through and drop off unwanted household hazardous products for free at HazoHouse, located at the Waste and Recovery Center in Lacey. Remember to store these products safely in your vehicle. Never mix different products together, seal lids tightly, and secure them in a container upright so they are not jostling around during transportation. Keep them away from children, pets, and vehicle passengers.

Make your own green cleaners! These are effective, cost efficient, and best of all - not hazardous!

Taking the time for safety is always a smart choice for you and your family.