CARBONDALE – Illinois EPA is sponsoring a free, one-day household chemical collection event at the Banterra Center (former SIU Arena), south parking lot in Carbondale on Saturday, June 24.

Illinois residents can safely drop-off waste at the site from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. To participate in the event, residents must schedule an appointment online at www.jchdonline.org or call 618-684-3143 ext. 128. 

Items that will be accepted at the collection include paint thinner, aerosols, household cleaners, pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, motor oil, antifreeze, old gasoline, rechargeable batteries, solvents, polishes, pool chemicals, lawn chemicals, oil-based and acrylic paint. Mercury-containing devices, such as thermometers, thermostats and fluorescent bulbs will be taken as well.  Also accepted will be unwanted or outdated medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. These items should be brought in their original container, but you may black out all personal information other than the drug name. Do not bring in controlled substances, needles, syringes or inhalers.  

Items which will absolutely not be accepted at the collection include latex paint, explosives, ammunition, fireworks, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, propane tanks, farm machinery oil, electronics, alkaline & lead-acid batteries, appliances, tires, radioactive material, and medical waste. No business, agricultural, or government wastes will be accepted. Eligible participants wishing to dispose of materials in containers larger than five gallons must contact Jackson County Health Department prior to the event.

This is a rain or shine event. Please contact the Jackson County Health Department at 618-684-3143, ext. 128 for more information, or visit www.jchdonline.org.