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Fuels

Fuels
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Fuels are toxic, flammable and explosive - never put fuel in your trash, on the ground, into water, or down a sewer or down a storm drain. If not disposed of properly, fuels can be harmful to the environment, as well as your health and safety.

Reduction Tips

Reduce waste by using refillable fuel containers when possible. Purchase only the amount of fuel you need, and use it up to avoid long-term storage and disposal.

Recycling & Disposal Information

To dispose of an unwanted liquid fuel, carefully pour it into an approved, labeled container (labeled to hold fuels), seal it and take it to your county household hazardous waste drop-off site. Fuels commonly accepted at county household hazardous waste drop-off sites include:
  • Gasoline and gas/oil mixtures
  • Diesel fuel
  • Kerosene, a common lantern fuel
  • Naptha or white gas, both common camping stove fuels
  • Butane, a common lighter and camping fuel
  • Sterno, a solid fuel used to heat food

Not all fuels and containers are accepted at county household hazardous waste drop-off sites. Contact your county to learn what types of fuels are accepted and how to prepare them for drop-off.

Tips for Transporting and Storing Fuels

  • Store gasoline and other fuels in containers made for that purpose.
  • Label the container with the fuel name.
  • Don't fill containers completely. Liquid fuels need room to expand.
  • Avoid mixing fuels unless your engine requires it.
  • Avoid breathing fuel fumes, and carefully ventilate storage areas or vehicles when transporting.
  • Transport fuels in the trunk and away from children.
  • Never smoke around fuels.

 

For information on disposing of other automotive fluids such as motor oil, antifreeze and brake fluid, see Automotive Fluids.