Council is once again encouraging residents to clear out unwanted hazardous chemicals from around the home and correctly dispose of them for free at the next bi-annual Chemical CleanOut events.

Community members can safely drop off their chemicals at Event Park, Kariong on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 February 2021, as well as at Long Jetty Council Depot on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 February from 9am to 3.30pm daily.

Council Unit Manager Waste Services and Business Development, Andrew Pearce said the events are a perfect opportunity for residents to clear any hazardous materials leftover from DIY projects during self-isolation and over the holidays.

“With the rise in home improvements and home clean outs in 2020, now is an ideal time to responsibly dispose of any leftover cleaning products and paints lurking around garages and sheds,” Mr Pearce said.

“As these events occur around every six months, it’s also a great reminder to check smoke detectors and their batteries, both of which are accepted at these events.

“Other items that can be dropped off include pesticides, gas bottles, fire extinguishers, fluorescent globes and tubes as well as any unknown or unidentified chemicals which are accepted for identification and correct disposal.

“With COVID-19 restrictions in place, extra precautions continue to be taken for the continued safety of residents and staff onsite and as always we ask residents to remain in their vehicles when dropping off their hazardous waste.”

Council Administrator Dick Persson AM praised the Central Coast community for their ongoing commitment to responsibly dispose of problem wastes.

“These events allow residents to get hazardous materials safely out of harm’s way, while also allowing for the recovery of reusable materials and precious metals,” Mr Persson said.

“With continuous record-breaking CleanOut events across the Coast each year, it is clear that Central Coast residents are eager to do the right thing and keep these hazardous materials out of landfills.”

Up to 100 litres of paint can be accepted per vehicle, in containers of 20L or less. For all other items, only household quantities of up to 20L or 20kg are accepted. For the full list of chemicals that can be dropped off call 131 555 or visit cleanout.com.au.

If you are unsure how to dispose of items, check the A-Z Waste Disposal and Recycling Guide at 1coast.com.au.

The Household Chemical CleanOut program is a NSW Government Waste Less Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy, brought to you by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, Paintback and Central Coast Council.

For more information you can also search 'chemical cleanout' at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au