MERCURY

Mercury is a nerve toxin that may impair the way we see, hear, walk, and talk. The most common sources of mercury in households are found in thermometers and fluorescent lights. Additional sources include neon lamps, dental amalgam, manometers, gauges, and thermostat probes.

Although the sources of mercury may seem small in volume, even these small amounts of mercury in lake water can contaminate fish, making them unfit to eat on a regular basis. Other than human consumption, other fish predators (e.g., loons, eagles, osprey) can move the contamination up the food chain. To protect the environment and our health, it is important to keep mercury out of our trash and drains.

How do I responsibly dispose of Mercury?

• Make sure to clean up any mercury spill immediately. You can use two pieces of paper or two razor blades to remove mercury from a smooth surface. You can also use an eyedropper or mercury vacuum to pick up pieces of mercury from the floor or ground.
  
• Keep broken item and exposed mercury in a closed container.
  
• Do not dispose in the trash or down the drain. Take mercury to the Sonoma County Waste Management Agency. The Household Toxics Facility is open every week for free drop-off of toxics from Sonoma County residents.

Visit www.RecycleNow.Org or call 707-565-DESK(3375) for hours, location, and more information about the Household Toxics Facility.

How do I responsibly dispose of these pollution sources?

Fats, Oils, Greases, and other Pollution Sources

Pharmaceuticals