Household quantities of chemicals including motor oils, paint, poisons and batteries can be disposed free of charge in Lake Macquarie this weekend.
Residents are being encouraged to safely get rid of unwanted household chemicals by dropping them off at Belmont TAFE car park on Saturday for the region's bi-annual Chemical CleanOut.
Each Chemical CleanOut on average saves 80 tonnes of problem waste from going to landfill.
Accepted quantities are limited to a maximum of 20kg by weight and 20L by size for a single item and for paint, up to 100L (maximum size of 20L containers).
"It is extremely important we don't fill up our landfill sites or tip any unwanted chemicals down the drain that may poison our waterways," Lake Macquarie City Council's waste services manager Paul Collins said.
"Many of the chemicals collected on the day can be recycled, while the rest is disposed of safely."
The event, which is being held in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Authority, will be a drive-through service.
It is recommended that containers filled with liquids are wrapped in newspaper and a plastic bag and placed inside a bucket or tray away from other passengers.
People are also advised not to mix chemicals and if possible leave in original containers.
All containers must be labelled and well sealed.
The event is open to all Hunter residents and will run from 9am until 3.30pm.
For more information and a full list of accepted items, call 131 555 or visit cleanout.com.au
