Antifreeze Disposal
Do's and Don'ts for Antifreeze Disposal
DO. . .Keep used antifreeze in a covered container and out of the way of animals, who are often attracted to its sweet flavor. Be sure your recycled antifreeze meets manufacturers' warranties for the vehicle you are servicing. As described above, recycle antifreeze by purchasing or leasing onsite recycling equipment; or using an offsite recycling service. Handle filters and other recycling by-products as hazardous waste.
DO NOT pour antifreeze into sewers, on the ground, or into floor drains, or mix used antifreeze with any other waste. Keep it separate.
DO NOT collect antifreeze in containers that have been used to hold other substances (e.g., gasoline) unless the containers have been thoroughly cleaned. Antifreeze can leach substances from the walls of a container.
Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which is poisonous when ingested. Ingestion may result in depression followed by respiratory and cardiac failure, kidney damage and brain damage. Manufacturers of antifreeze are required to clearly post dangers on the label and provide a childproof cap, which minimizes the danger of accidental ingestion by children. However, antifreeze when improperly disposed of can endanger the health of pets. Each year, thousands of dogs and cats are poisoned by discarded or leaking antifreeze. The sweet taste of antifreeze attracts pets who lap up puddles of antifreeze they find. To prevent this danger, wash down or absorb puddles of antifreeze with an absorbent material such as kitty litter and dispose of the absorbent in the trash.
Use: Follow label directions. Never heat antifreeze. This would release toxic fumes.
Storage: Store away from heat and in a well-ventilated area. Keep away from children and pets.
Disposal: . Do not pour antifreeze into household drains, storm sewer openings, sinkholes, on the ground, or abandoned wells where they will directly pollute the water. Please dispose of antifreeze during household hazardous waste collections or your antifreeze can be recycled. Check with a local garage, public works department or motor vehicle salvage yard to see if you can recycle your antifreeze with theirs.
http://www.epa.gov/grtlakes/seahome/housewaste/house/antifrze.htm
