What to Do If You Find Dangerous Containers
When you return home, you might find drums, propane tanks, or other chemical tanks with unidentified chemicals. If you see one of these DO NOT TOUCH IT. These containers could contain something like motor oil from an auto repair place, or chemicals used for manufacturing products that we use every day.
The chemicals are typically stored safely by their owners. But, the hurricane and the flooding that followed moved some of these drums and tanks so that they are no longer stored safely. They could even be leaking chemicals. These misplaced containers are called orphan drums.
Monday October 13th, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), sent out a request to members of the public, asking them to report any orphan drums or tanks. Orphan drums and tanks dangerous because they might be leaking chemicals that can hurt people or the environment. The EPA is working to safely remove all the orphan drums and tanks
What should I do if I find an orphan drum or tank?
If you see an orphan drum in your yard, alongside the road, in a parking lot or field, please take the following steps:
- Do not touch the container, it could be leaking something that could make you sick
- Leave the area
- Call 1-800-671-6022 right away to report the location to the EPA.
What will the EPA do after I call them?
The EPA will:
- Assess the container;
- Transfer it to another container if leaking;
- Ship to an appropriate facility for disposal
What about chemical containers from my house?
In addition to orphan drums, you might find that you had paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, and pesticides, that you now want to get rid of. These type of household products, products that contain corrosive, toxic, ignitable, or reactive ingredients are called "household hazardous waste". Do not pour them down the drain, on the ground, into storm sewers, or put them in your regular trash. Instead, bring them to a household hazardous waste collection center. A complete listing of collection centers can be found here.
