Remember to Trash Responsibly this 4th of July Holiday

Holiday weeks tend to generate more trash than normal, and Independence Day is no exception. In addition to large piles at the curb, America’s birthday brings a new set of challenges for Rumpke’s team.

“The days following Independence Day are known for burnt trash cans, dumpster fires and load fires in trash and recycling trucks,” said Bridgett Biggs, safety manager, Rumpke Waste and Recycling of Georgetown, KY.

To prevent accidental fires, please follow these guidelines to properly dispose of fireworks as well as charcoal embers:

1. Let them cool: Allow used fireworks or charcoal embers to cool.
2. Submerge completely: Submerge all used and unused fireworks and charcoal embers in a bucket of water. Ideally, you soak the material overnight to ensure they are completely saturated.
3. Place in trash cans. Never place fireworks or coal embers in your recycling bin.While fireworks and hot charcoal are common fire starters this time of year, they aren’t the only culprit. Rumpke also reminds residents to properly dispose of lithium-ion batteries.

“When it comes to batteries –you should skip the bin and turn batteries in,” said Biggs.  “Batteries don’t belong in trash or recycling containers. Visit batterysafetynow.org for locations to properly dispose of batteries near you.”