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Have a Safe & Eco-friendly Fourth of July
Who doesn’t enjoy a good backyard BBQ? Summer is in full swing, and as family and friends gather for Fourth of July barbecues, picnics and pool parties, Republic encourages you to be safe and environmentally responsible with these practical tips.Byline: BTB Editor
June 27, 2018 / Time to read: 5 minWho doesn’t enjoy a good backyard BBQ? Summer is in full swing, and as family and friends gather for Fourth of July barbecues, picnics and pool parties, Republic encourages you to be safe and environmentally responsible with these four practical tips:
- Fireworks disposal: Fireworks require special handling when the celebration is over. The National Council on Fireworks Safety advises submerging fireworks in water before safely disposing of the debris, including used matches. So when the fun is done, make sure you dispose of your fireworks safely.
- BBQ debris: One of the most common causes for fires in trash containers is barbecue coals and ashes. Coals that appear to be cooled can actually stay hot for days after use creating an unsafe situation for you, your family and your neighbors. After a cookout, allow charcoal and ashes to safely cool. To accelerate the cooling process, put the coals in a little cold water. Once completely cool, the charcoal is ready to be safely disposed of in a trash container. Please don’t place used coals in plastic or paper containers.
- Eco-friendly serveware: Consider using reusable serving ware, if that’s not an option, look for environmentally friendly, disposable serving ware, such as products made from eco-friendly, biodegradable or recycled material. Products made from renewable, plant-based materials like bamboo can biodegrade in compost piles and landfills.
- Clearly label trash containers: For your backyard gathering, provide a convenient, clearly marked recycling container next to your trash bin to collect any plastic or paper items that can be recycled – minus any food or liquid residue (this contaminates recyclable materials). To further decrease waste, add a bin for food scraps that you can
compost later.
This Fourth of July holiday, let’s work together to keep everyone safe and to do the right thing for our Blue Planet®. As a reminder, aerosol cans, asbestos, batteries, chemical products, fluorescent lights, pesticides and any types of oil, including oil rags, are among the list of hazardous items not allowed in your curbside containers.
