Central Coast Council is encouraging the community to correctly dispose of chemicals lurking in and around the home, garage or shed for free at the next bi-annual Chemical CleanOut.

Residents have the opportunity to drop off chemicals over two consecutive weekends at both Gosford Showground car park on Saturday 24 or Sunday 25 February and Council’s Long Jetty Depot at the corner of The Entrance and Wyong Roads on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 March, between 9am and 3.30pm.

Council Unit Manager Waste Services and Business Development, Andrew Pearce, said this is great opportunity for residents to safely dispose of household problem wastes which are otherwise unable to be collected through Council’s kerbside waste and recycling collection services.

“We accept materials such as pool chemicals, car batteries, acids and alkalis, solvents, pesticides, chemical cleaners, motor oils, herbicides, paints, hobby chemicals, gas bottles, fire extinguishers, fluorescent lights and household cleaners,” Mr Pearce said.

“Incorrect disposal of chemicals, such as dumping, placing in the bin or pouring down drains, are not only offences that attract fines and penalties, but they can also cause serious environmental effects by contaminating our waterways and landfill sites.”

Council Mayor Jane Smith said the CleanOut provided a great opportunity for residents to remove unwanted household chemicals in a responsible and environmentally friendly way.

“These events allow residents to not only get hazardous materials out of harm’s way, but also do their bit for the environment,” Mayor Smith said.

“The community’s response to chemical collections has been outstanding — over 200 tonnes of unwanted chemicals were dropped off last year, which we’re looking to replicate again this year.

“Chemical Specialists will be on hand to unload the waste products, making the drop off as hassle free as possible — it is a simple and safe solution.”

Only household quantities are accepted. A 20 litre or 20 kilogram maximum container size per item applies. Council urges residents to transport material safely, in its original container, and to remain in the vehicle at the collection site.

This project is a NSW Environment Protection Authority Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy.

Visit cleanout.com.au or call 131 555 for a full list of chemicals that can be dropped off.