ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Household hazardous waste

Hello there! Today, we will talk about household hazardous waste, which is something that grown-ups need to know about when taking care of their homes.

Household hazardous waste refers to things that we use in our homes, like cleaning products, batteries, insecticides, and other chemical products that can be harmful to people and the environment.

Think of it like this: When you eat an apple, you can throw the core in the trash, and it will not harm anyone or anything. But if you have a dangerous chemical product in your home, like bleach or gasoline, and you throw it in the trash, it can hurt people or put the environment in danger.

That's why, when we have household hazardous waste, it's essential to get rid of it responsibly. We can't just throw it in the trash like regular garbage because it could be dangerous to the people who handle the trash or the environment.

Instead, many cities and towns have special collection events where people can take their household hazardous waste, and it will be disposed of in a safe manner. This is usually free and is a way to make sure the dangerous chemicals don't get into the wrong hands or cause damage to the environment.

So remember, when it comes to household hazardous waste, be responsible, and don't throw things in the trash that could be dangerous to others. Instead, take them to a special collection event, and help keep everyone healthy and safe!
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