Water Quality District - Hazardous Waste
Diesel Fuel & Kerosene
What is it?
Diesel fuel and kerosene are both flammable and toxic petroleum distillate products. Kerosene is used in lamps, domestic heaters or furnaces, jet engine fuel, and as a solvent for grease and pesticides. Diesel fuel has a higher boiling point than kerosene and is used to power diesel engines, motor vehicles, farm equipment, and industrial machines.
What Makes it Hazardous?
Diesel fuel and kerosene are both flammable liquids. They can cause health effects from inhalation, ingestions, and skin contact. Over-exposure could result in poisoning. Diesel fuel and kerosene can also be harmful to the environment. Burning diesel fuel and kerosene improperly can cause air pollution. Improper storage and disposal can lead to soil, groundwater, and surface water pollution.
Safety Notes
- Never smoke around diesel fuel or kerosene.
- Always properly label your containers.
- Do not completely fill the container; fuels need room to expand.
- Avoid breathing fumes.
- Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Disposal Options
Dispose:
- Ozzie's Oil: Ozzie's will accept up to 10 gallons of diesel fuel and kerosene free-of-charge during Haz Waste Days. There is a small fee for disposal at other times of the year.
- Do not mix fuels with oil and/or antifreeze. Oil and Antifreeze cannot be recycled if mixed with other products.
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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