Central Coast residents have an opportunity to clear their homes of unwanted chemical products at a free Household Chemical CleanOut event, hosted by Central Coast Council.

Chemical products collected from around the home, garage or car can be dropped off at a weekend event at Bateau Bay.

Materials such as pool chemicals, car batteries, acids and alkalis, solvents, pesticides, chemical cleaners, motor oils, herbicides, paints, hobby chemicals, gas bottles, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, florescent bulbs and household cleaners will be accepted.

Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the cleanout allows residents to safely dispose of unwanted chemicals and waste.

“As many chemicals are hazardous, it’s important they are disposed of safely and properly,” said Mr Reynolds.

“The free collections are a handy way for residents to dispose of materials they no longer need or have passed their use by date.

“Most chemicals can be dropped off, including materials with flammable gas, corrosive, flammable liquid, toxic, flammable solid and oxidizing agent logos.

“In 2016, 224 tonnes of hazardous waste was collected from over 5,800 cars on the Central Coast.

“Paint was the most popular material, with more than 60 percent of the total collection - batteries, pesticides, motor oil were also popular.”

Residents can drop off materials between 9am and 3.30pm at the Long Jetty Council Depot, Bateau Bay, on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 March.

Households are reminded there is a 20kg/20L limit per container, and are advised to transport all materials carefully and to remain in their vehicles at the collection site.

The free collection is part of the NSW Environmental and Protection Authority Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded by the waste levy.

For a full list of accepted materials visit cleanout.com.au  or call 131 555.