Hazardous Waste in the Home

Placing families at risk of accidental exposure

Many homeowners are often faced with the discovery of an old but hazardous substance (PDF) in their house or in the house of a family member. Since they cannot just throw out the dangerous substance, many homeowners continue to maintain hazardous materials in their home and put their families at risk of accidental exposure.

Old hazardous materials in your home

• If it is leaking call 911 immediately.
• If acids or chemicals have crystallized or changed color do not touch them, call 911. The chemical may be unstable or subject to a violent reaction.
• Download a list of hazardous household products (PDF) for more information.

Hazardous material/chemical leaking

Call the Maryland Department of the Environment’s Household Hazardous Waste Center at 410-631-3344, or contact Harford County Recycling Office at 410-638-3417

Avoid a potential chemical hazard in your home

• Buy pesticides, construction materials (glue, paints) and cleaning materials in proper sizes to complete the job you are trying to do. Do not buy commercial size containers if you are doing a small job at home.
• Do not take chemicals home from work.
• Never keep chemicals in food containers (old jars, milk cartons, etc.). Keep them in the original container. If you do not know what it is, do not use it!
• If you have chemicals left over from a project, ask your neighbors if they can use them. If you have construction materials left over, contact a contractor who may be able to use them.