2016 Tox-Away Day yields highs and lows

Sunday, May 22, 2016

Putnam County Tox-Away Day, sponsored May 14 by West Central Solid Waste District (WCSWD), saw high volumes and chilly low temperatures.

Residents took advantage of the opportunity to safely dispose of household hazardous waste (HHW), appliances, tires, electronics and unwanted medicines at the Area 30 Career Center in Greencastle.

There was a continuous line of vehicles/trailers with 567 participants during the five-hour event. Area 30 Career Center and Greencastle Police Capt. Charles Inman's law enforcement students Ethan Winings, Claire Sims, Wesley Roe and Destiny Eltz braved the gusty winds while assisting with traffic control.

"Like any new location, we were faced with challenges in finding adequate space to position large trailers and equipment while also being concerned with traffic flow and safety," WCSWD Executive Director Jane Collisi said. "I would like to personally thank each and every resident who patiently waited in unusually long lines while mounds of tires, appliances and electronics were unloaded from their vehicles."

Residents brought in 804 tires (auto, truck and tractor), 153 appliances and 26,946 pounds of electronics along with tons of toxic and hazardous materials, medication and sharps. Such materials, if disposed of improperly, can be dangerous to human and animal health, and the environment.

Residents who were unable to attend the May 14 event are welcome to attend upcoming Tox-Away Days June 18 (North Montgomery High School, Crawfordsville) and/or Sept. 17 (Parke County Fairgrounds, Rockville).

For a complete list of items collected, visit www.westcentralswd.com and click on "Tox-Away" tab, then click "printable flyer" at the bottom of the page.

Residents can also call the WCSWD office with specific questions at 653-2150 or (800) 211-2750.

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