Dangerous Materials
Call 911 in emergencies.
Asbestos
Asbestos fibers that become airborne (friable) when disturbed are dangerous if inhaled. Disposal should be done professionally. Contact a specialized contractor for removal and disposal information.
Explosives - Bullets, Flares, Gunpower, Fireworks Etc.
Call 911 to properly dispose of explosives.
Used fireworks and pyrotechnic flares should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to ensure they are fully extinguished, then placed in a bag and disposed of with household trash.
Unused fireworks and expired flares should NEVER be placed in curbside recycling or the trash. To dispose of unused fireworks or pyrotechnic flares, call 911. A dispatcher will provide instructions for dropping them off at a Monroe County Sheriff's substation or arranging for collection from your home.
Electronic flares are becoming the new standard for boating safety equipment. Because they are battery-powered, proper disposal depends on the type of battery they contain. Check the battery type and follow the appropriate recycling or disposal guidelines. Learn more here: https://www.monroecounty.gov/ecopark-batteries
Radioactive Materials
For information on handling potentially radioactive materials, call the New York State Health Deptartment's 24-hour hotline at 1-833-364-4695. In emergencies, call 911.
Illegal Drugs
Call 911 to properly dispose of illegal drugs.
For legal over-the-counter and prescription medications, see pharmaceutical waste collections
Shock Sensitive Materials (i.e. crystallized ethers, picric acid)
Call 911 to properly dispose of shock sensitive materials.
