Vehicles and Garages

Actions You Can Take

  • Prevent vehicle fluids, such as oil and antifreeze, from entering a creek, stream, or storm drain by disposing of them properly.
  • Contain spilled fluids immediately with rags, kitty litter, or other absorbent material.
  • Check cars for leaks and have the car repaired if any are found. Keep cars tuned up.
  • Store hazardous materials properly in the original closed container.
  • Dispose of any unwanted chemicals at a household hazardous waste collection center. Never pour hazardous chemicals into the street, ditch, gutter, creek, stream, or storm drain.
  • Do not mix different engine liquids.
  • Recycle used motor oil. Some gas stations and auto supply stores will accept used oil.
  • Use ground cloths or drip pans beneath the vehicle if there are leaks or when working on vehicles.
  • When washing cars at home, use a shutoff nozzle on the hose to reduce runoff.
  • Park cars on the lawn to wash them so that it will allow some of the pollutants to be filtered out before entering the closest water body.
  • Use a bucket and sponge. Save using the hose for the final rinse.
  • Look for car care products that do not contain dyes and phenols.