Water Quality District - Hazardous Waste
Antifreeze
What Is It?
Green and orange antifreeze are engine coolants for vehicles and other machines, while pink antifreeze is often used to prevent freezing in pipes or plumbing systems.
What Makes It Hazardous?
Green and orange antifreeze contain ethylene glycol, while pink antifreeze contains propylene glycol. All can be poisonous when ingested, although green and orange antifreeze are much more toxic than pink propylene glycol. Ingestion may result in respiratory and cardiac failure, kidney damage, brain damage, and even death. Manufacturers of antifreeze are required to clearly post its dangers on the label and provide a childproof cap. This minimizes the risk of children ingesting antifreeze. However, when improperly disposed of or when waste antifreeze is stored in a container without a childproof cap, the sweet taste of antifreeze may attract children and/or pets.
Safety Notes
- Keep antifreeze away from children and pets.
- Store antifreeze only in containers with childproof caps.
- Prevent antifreeze from dripping on the ground and/or entering the storm sewers.
- Do not pour antifreeze into septic systems, onto the land, or into lakes or streams.
Disposal Options
Recycle:
- Oily Waste Processors will take up to 10 gallons free-of-charge at Household Hazardous Waste Days. (Please keep antifreeze separate from all other products. Antifreeze cannot be recycled if mixed with other products such as oil and fuels).
- For a fee, you may also recycle your used antifreeze at some service stations that accept antifreeze for reconditioning.
Dispose:
- Do not put antifreeze in the trash or down storm drain.
The Residential Disposal Guide is provided by the Missoula Valley Water Quality District as a public service and is not an endorsement of specific businesses, services or products. Any omissions or inaccuracies are unintentional. Please contact us with corrections or additions. Call businesses or agencies to confirm hours, locations and charges for services, if any. For information on disposal of items not listed, email or call the Water Quality District at 406-258-4890, M - F, 8 am to 5 pm.
Much of the information provided is from the Washington County, MN, Dept. of Public Health and Environment website.
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